PHOENIX — Phoenix Rising FC manager Rick Schantz will be back on the pitch Saturday for the USL Championship Western Conference final after being reinstated Wednesday.
The reinstatement comes after Rising FC ownership received a "note of support" from San Diego Loyal SC's Collin Martin.
Schantz, a Salpointe Catholic High School graduate and a founding member and former coach of FC Tucson, was put on administrative leave by the Phoenix club after appearing insensitive when Rising's Junior Flemmings directed a homophobic slur toward Martin, who is openly gay, during a match between the clubs on Sept. 30.
“Rick has apologized to me personally and I accept that apology as genuine,” Martin said in a statement released by Phoenix Rising FC. “We all come to our education on issues at different times, and he is beginning to understand the pain and disappointment he caused his team, the fans and the LGBTQ community. I see no reason not to give him my blessing and an opportunity to prove that someone can change."
Since the incident, which also led to Flemmings being put on administrative leave for the remainder of his contract, Phoenix and San Diego have come together to establish educational programs that will benefit the entire USL Championship.
Schantz has also been in touch with members of the LGBTQ+ community and is raising his awareness of the situation.
“During his administrative leave, Rick has dedicated himself to listening to members of the LGBTQ community and learning about the difference between tolerance and acceptance,” said Phoenix Rising FC governor Berke Bakay. “I have witnessed a sincere commitment in him to use this public platform as head coach of our club to amplify the importance of equality and inclusion in professional sports.”
