In a statement posted on social media, Masoli — who is expected to be out 10 to 12 weeks — thanked everyone who reached out to offer support and then condemned the Roughriders organization and the CFL’s response. “It’s sad that hate and racist behavior and racial slurs will be punished with a slap on the wrist,” he said. “A game about racial slurs is not enough in my opinion and I hope we can use it to promote growth and change for the better.” Marino’s hit on Masoli and his subsequent actions in the immediate aftermath got him ejected from the game. The CFL later imposed an unprecedented four-game suspension. Marino is suspended two games for his dangerous low hit, one game for an illegal tackle on an Ottawa forward and one game for comments about another player’s heritage, which violate the league’s code of conduct. It’s the most severe in-game conduct discipline in CFL history, and league commissioner Randy Ambrosie said it’s intended to send a strong message. But Masoli added that he has experienced racism in the past in the league and said the CFL should not be a place for racism and hate. He said the CFL “has done and continues to do great work” with diverse communities across Canada and it’s something the CFL can be proud of, but also said Roughriders coach Craig Dickenson’s comments show an obliviousness to “serious events that choose to ignore.” “I have seen the poor and uninformed excuses given by the Saskatchewan head coach and no apology from Garrett Marino, Coach Dickenson or any Saskatchewan executive,” he wrote. “Having already played 12 games with a previous suspension and two fines before this incident, it is clear that Gareth Marino cannot control himself. The welfare and safety of CFL players matter and we should not be concerned about those who cannot consistently play by the rules.” Dickenson had defended Marino in an interview, but later apologized on Twitter for his comments, calling them insensitive and irrelevant. “I tried to defend his character amid accusations that he said something racially or culturally insensitive, pointing out that he has many close friends who are black and a longtime girlfriend who is also black. I understand that this comment is insensitive and irrelevant to the discussion. I apologize for this comment,” he wrote. But he continued to defend Marino, saying he is being “unfairly characterized and punished” for his actions. In a now-deleted tweet, Dickenson also said the four-game suspension was too harsh and hoped Marino would appeal and get it reduced.
Long time friend who is also black. I understand that this comment is insensitive and irrelevant to the discussion. I apologize for this comment. That being said, I stand by my belief that Garrett is being unfairly singled out and punished for his actions in the game against — Craig Dickenson (@cdickenson26) July 12, 2022 “At the CFL we say our diversity is our strength, so there should be no room for racial hatred,” Masoli wrote. Masoli concluded his note by saying that he is preparing for surgery and the road to recovery.
