Colorado State defensive line coach Greg Lupfer has been suspended for two weeks without pay after being caught by ESPN’s cameras using an anti-gay slur during the New Mexico Bowl.
According to a report by CBS Sports, Lupfer and Washington State quarterback Connor Halliday were caught in a verbal exchange after Halliday threw a touchdown pass in the first half of the game.
Lupfer has accepted the consequences and apologized in a prepared statement:
“I accept these consequences—two weeks without pay and the training programs—and I am thankful for this second chance to continue coaching at Colorado State and be a part of the Ram Family,” Lupfer said. “I am deeply sorry for my behavior, which does not represent who I am or my values. I embrace the opportunity to participate in anger management and diversity sensitivity training. I was angry and careless with my words, and my words hurt many people. I sincerely apologize to the GLBTQ community for causing pain by using a slur without considering its meaning. I take ownership of my words and fully understand why people are very upset.”
Lupfer will also be required to go through mandatory anger management and diversity training.
Demeaning or disparaging anyone is never right, whether it’s the LGBTQ community or not. Speak love and healing words not words that bring shame or sadness.