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Sportsnet apologizes for Don Cherry's 'divisive' and 'offensive' remarks

Rick Madonik / Toronto Star / Getty

Sportsnet issued a statement on Sunday apologizing for Don Cherry's disparaging remarks during his most recent "Coach's Corner" segment on Hockey Night in Canada.

"Don's discriminatory comments are offensive and they do not represent our values and what we stand for as a network. We have spoken directly with Don about the severity of this issue and we sincerely apologize for these divisive remarks," read the statement from Bart Yabsley, president of Sportsnet.

With Remembrance Day approaching, Cherry ranted about people who immigrate to Canada apparently not purchasing enough poppies.

"You people that come here, you love our way of life, you love our milk and honey, at least you can pay a couple of bucks for poppies or something like that," Cherry said.

"These guys paid for your way of life that you enjoy in Canada."

The NHL also released a statement.

"Hockey is at its best when it brings people together. The comments made last night were offensive and contrary to the values we believe in," it read.

Hockey Canada later issued a statement of its own.

"The hockey community does not stand for the comments made last night," Canada's governing body of the sport said. "Hockey is Canada's game because it brings our country together, be it around the television or in local arenas. Belonging and inclusivity are an integral part of our game."

Cherry, 85, has been an open supporter of the military throughout his career, and he's received plenty of online backlash over this outburst. It doesn't appear he'll face any additional discipline, and Cherry hasn't addressed the matter since the segment aired.

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