Chicago Wolves head coach Bob Nardella has been suspended 10 games for using homophobic language during a recent game, the American Hockey League announced Tuesday.

On Wednesday, Nardella issued a statement, denying that he had used homophobic language.

“I firmly deny that I made a homophobic remark during the game last Saturday, December 9. I want to state clearly that I condemn any form of homophobic language or conduct.”

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Nardella went on to admit that he shouldn’t have lost his temper and he looks forward to returning to the bench and “will remain a vocal advocate against all forms of discrimination in hockey.”

Nardella disputed a penalty call at 8:48 of the third period in the Wolves’ game against the Texas Stars on Saturday. During his interaction with the officials, he used homophobic language, which resulted in a game misconduct for abuse of officials.

Chicago Wolves head coach Bob Nardella has been suspended for 10 games as a consequence of his actions in Saturday’s game at Texas.

— AHL Communications (@AHLPR) December 12, 2023

“The American Hockey League is committed to building a culture that is safe, inclusive and free from abuse, harassment and all forms of unethical behavior or misconduct,” the AHL wrote in its statement on Tuesday. “During the suspension, Nardella will be permitted to participate in team practices on non-game days; he will be eligible to return to the Wolves bench on Jan. 6.”

The Wolves acknowledged the suspension Tuesday afternoon and released a statement of their own on social media.

“The Chicago Wolves do not tolerate derogatory language of any kind on and off the ice,” the statement included.

The Wolves have often been active and vocal supporters of the LGBTQ+ community in the Chicago area. On Nov. 30, the Wolves posted on Instagram: “The Chicago Wolves are proud to support Pride, and we are dedicated to doing our part to uplift the LGBTQ+ community throughout the season. The organization embraces continued efforts to provide safe spaces of belonging for everyone, believing that hockey is a sport for all to enjoy.”

Nardella was promoted to the Wolves head coaching position in June after being an assistant coach for six seasons. He also played for the Wolves and ranks second in all-time regular-season games for the franchise with 476. He is originally from Melrose Park, Ill., a Chicago suburb.

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The Wolves have their next game on Tuesday night. They are 9-10-2 on the season.

(Photo: Frank Jansky / Icon Sportswire / Associated Press)