Los Angeles: Anaheim Ducks forward Shawn Horcoff was hit with a 20-game ban for violating the National Hockey League’s doping regulations on Tuesday.
Horcoff’s ban was announced on Tuesday by the NHL, who offered no additional comment. Horcoff will be suspended without pay, meaning he stands to lose around $357,500 (Dh1.31 million) in earnings. The substance Horcoff tested positive for was not disclosed.
In a separate statement, the player said he had inadvertently taken the drug in question during rehabilitation from an injury.
“While recovering from an injury I suffered this past fall, I tried a treatment that I believed would help speed up the healing process,” Horcoff said.
“Although I was unaware that this treatment was not permitted under NHL rules, that is no excuse whatsoever. I should have done my research ... I accept full responsibility for my actions and I am sorry.”
Ducks general manager Bob Murray said in a statement the team would support the player.
“The Anaheim Ducks’ organisation fully supports the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program. We will also continue to support Shawn as a player and person throughout this process.”
Horcoff, 37, has played 45 games for the Ducks this season, scoring six goals and four assists. Horcoff began his career with the Edmonton Oilers in 1998, where he remained for 12 years before moving to the Dallas Stars.
— AFP
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