A day after he was officially released by the Chicago Blackhawks, veteran forward Corey Perry has issued an apology to teammates and the organization.
In a statement, Perry wrote:
“I would like to sincerely apologize to the entire Chicago Blackhawks organization, including ownership, management, coaches, trainers, employees, and my teammates. I would also like to apologize to my fans, and my family. I am embarrassed and I have let you all down.
“As a result of my actions, there has been speculation and rumors. I am sickened by the impact this has had on others, and I want to make it clear that in no way did this situation involve any of my teammates or their families. Most importantly, I want to directly apologize to those who have been negatively affected and I am sorry for the additional impact to others it has created. My behavior was inappropriate and wrong.
“I have started working with experts in the mental health and substance abuse fields to discuss my struggles with alcohol and I will take whatever steps necessary to ensure this never happens again. I hope to regain the trust and respect of everyone who has believed in me throughout my career.
“Once again, I am deeply sorry.”
After a week of rumours and reports swirling online regarding Perry’s absence and release from the Blackhawks some details began to emerge on Wednesday.
The team waived the former Hart Trophy winner on Tuesday after an investigation into “unacceptable” behaviour, which kicked the rumour mill into high gear. He cleared waivers on Wednesday with no other team placing a claim on the former Hart Trophy winner.
ESPN reported that Perry and the team travelled to Columbus last Tuesday, a day before the Blackhawks were set to play the Blue Jackets. While there, an incident with a team employee occurred and led to Perry being pulled from the game and the investigation being set in motion.
According to the report, it’s unclear exactly where the incident took place.
However, a report later Wednesday from Daily Faceoff reporter Frank Seravalli suggested booze might have been involved.
Citing sources, Daily Faceoff said an “alcohol-fueled incident involving Perry” was alleged to have happened during “an event that included corporate partners and team employees in attendance.”
It’s not yet clear what allegedly took place, who witnessed it, and who reported it to the team, Daily Faceoff reported.
The lack of information led to salacious rumours about Perry’s absence, which led to Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson clearing the air on Tuesday.
“This does not involve any players or their families and anything that suggests otherwise or anyone that suggests otherwise is wildly inaccurate and, frankly, it’s disgusting,” Davidson said.
Davidson also said that Perry was “immediately pulled from the game” after the team became aware of the situation and that it was a “workplace matter.”
“I think over the last 24 hours, what’s gone on has been very disturbing,” Davidson said. “And I feel like I’m wearing it. I’m carrying that. It’s just tough to see.”