Redblacks’ Seth Coate suspended

The CFL has suspended international receiver Seth Coate two games for violating the league’s substance abuse rules.

Coate, who has been on the Redblacks practice roster since the beginning of the season, issued a statement after the CFL’s ruling.

“I was very upset and disappointed to learn that I recently tested positive for a substance that is banned in the CFL,” Coate said. “This was most likely the result of a supplement I took back in July when I was working full-time and I had no idea I was going to be playing football ever again.

“Needless to say, I feel terrible for having put myself and my team in a difficult position and for that I sincerely apologize. I am very proud to part of this organization and would never intentionally do anything to jeopardize that.”

Redblacks GM Marcel Desjardins says it’s also the understanding that the suspension is from an “over the counter” supplement.

“While we accept the penalty imposed by the CFL, we know the kind of person and player we have in Seth Coate and the Redblacks organization stands firm in its support for him.”

Redblacks coach Rick Campbell, speaking at the tail end of Wednesday’s practice in preparation for Thursday’s game against the Toronto Argonauts, also expressed support for Coate.