The owner of the Glasgow Clan has issued an apology to fans over the signing of rape accused Lasse Uusivirta as he “explores” putting the club up for sale.
Clan chairman and owner Neil Black said the events of the past week had been an “all-time low" for the Braehead outfit as he confirmed he would look for new owners.
Issuing a full apology for the signing of Uusivirta, Black said he did not know about the player’s rape allegation in the United States until after the deal was announced on Thursday, September 29.
But stating the “buck stops with me,” he said: “Bearing that in mind, after 12 years as owner, now is the time to explore the opportunity to put the Glasgow Clan up for sale or to seek a broader ownership group.
“I believe a new or broader ownership group could reinvigorate this fantastic franchise and fan base. It is what you as fans deserve.”
The Clan aborted the signing of 33-year-old Uusivirta within hours of it being announced after fans pointed out he had an outstanding first degree rape charge in the United States.
Mr Black launched an internal investigation into the signing which resulted in the sacking of chief executive Gareth Chalmers.
Head coach Malcolm Cameron was reinstated after suspension but today commercial director Gerry McLaughlin confirmed he had resigned from the club.
It came hours after Aspray Glasgow West – the title sponsor of the Braehead side – Proximo 3, Indigo Unified Communications and Paisley Autocare all suspended their cash sponsorship of the team.
Instead, several of the club’s sponsors have donated cash to a JustGiving Page for Rape Crisis Scotland – set up by Clan fan Callum Yorke.
Mr Black added: “Let me reiterate again my utter revulsion, disappointment, and anger at what transpired last week.
“We are profoundly sorry about everything that has happened and I completely appreciate why there is so much anger out there.”
“I want to repledge again what this great club is all about and will be going forwards. Community, charity, inclusiveness and coming together as one to support our team in purple in what is the greatest sport on earth.”
Explaining it has been “an incredibly complex situation to navigate”, Mr Black said he had liaised with the authorities in the UK and in the US as part of his investigation.
He said he had been advised against speaking publicly on the issue, stating every decision he has made to date has been done so with a view of potential legal reprisals.
He said: “Finally, while I appreciate and understand the hurt done and feeling, I would like to issue a rallying call to of our fans, sponsors, players and staff, to come together as one, to ensure the continued existence of this great club and to guide it through to an exciting and successful future.”
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