Chicago White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen is reportedly planning to attend the Gay Games on July 17, less than a month after calling a Chicago Sun-Times sports columnist a 'f——— fag.'
Guillen's 'fag' comment, directed at Jay Mariotti, led to a fine and an order from Major League Baseball commissioner Bud Selig that he must attend sensitivity training.
Guillen, quoted June 30 in the Sun-Times, said, 'Yeah, I'm going. I'm going on the off day. But I had plans to go even before I was asked. I've had plans to go there for a long time.'
Gay Games spokesman Kevin Boyer said he has not spoken directly with Guillen about him attending the Games, or what events he'd like to see.
'According to the Sun-Times, Ozzie has decided to attend the Gay Games events with his friends on his one day off that week. He's not formally notified us of his plans, nor would we expect him to do so,' Boyer said. 'Of course, if our World Champion White Sox decide to do something more formal, we'll gladly accept the support.'
There are 22 sporting events scheduled for July 17, including softball, wrestling, flag football and ice hockey. And Guillen definitely is welcome at the Chicago Gay Hockey Association ( CGHA ) game July 17 ( 6:20 p.m. ) in Lincolnwood against San Francisco—and not just as a fan.
'If Ozzie Guillen is in fact attending the Gay Games on July 17, he is welcome to serve as the 'Manager' for the Chicago Blackwolves' game that evening,' said CGHA Board member Andy Rogers of Chicago, who plays forward and defense. 'Sure, Ozzie might not know too much about hockey, but he's the manager of the defending World Series champions, so he's certainly welcome on our bench. After all, that's what the Games are all about—inclusion.'
Guillen apologized for using the gay slur, saying he did not intend to offend the LGBT community.
'Ozzie Guillen will be warmly welcomed at the Gay Games, whatever events he wants to attend,' Boyer said. 'The Gay Games brings people together, gay and straight. It's great to see Ozzie Guillen part of another great event that will unite Chicago.'
Guillen reportedly was to begin sensitivity training this past Monday. The classes—as many as four—are each expected to last about an hour and will be held at either Guillen's home or U.S. Cellular Field.