Major League Soccer has suspended Seattle soccer player Marc Burch for his use of a gay slur during an early November match at Real Salt Lake.
The defender has been suspended three games, effectively ending his season.
Burch, who issued a statement of apology Nov. 9, was also fined an undisclosed amount and mandated to take diversity and sensitivity training. The left back was in line to play in the team’s final games, according to coach Sigi Schmid.
The first two games of the suspension were served in the conference finals against the Los Angeles Galaxy. The third game, if not covered in the MLS Cup, would be the 2013 season opener.
“Major League Soccer has a zero tolerance policy in response to this type of behavior from its players or staff,” said MLS commissioner Don Garber in a news release. “While I understand and believe that Mr. Burch is remorseful, Major League Soccer is committed to providing an environment in which all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.”
Houston’s Colin Clark was given the exact same punishment earlier this season for directing a gay slur at a ball boy in a March game against the Sounders at CenturyLink Field.
Burch called his choice of words “horrific” in his apology.
“This is something that is inconsistent with my family values and because of that I am both disappointed and embarrassed by my level of poor judgment,” he said. “I take seriously my role as a leader in the community and this is completely regrettable and unacceptable. Character matters and I hope through hard work on and off the field to begin earning your respect and trust again.”
