Jeremy Leipsic released from University of Manitoba hockey team

Jeremy Leipsic, the brother of Washington Capitals forward Brendan Leipsic, has been released from the University of Manitoba men's hockey team after a series of offensive group messages on Instagram went viral Wednesday night, the University's athletic director Gene Muller announced Thursday, per the Winnipeg Sun's Scott Billeck.

"Bison Sports was extremely disappointed to learn of the comments made made by the group of prominent hockey players, including one of our own, who were involved in the group chat that has emerged online," Muller said. "We condemn any such remarks and attitudes as they are offensive, reprehensible, and have absolutely no place in our sport or in our programs.

"Leadership, respect, and integrity are core values of the Bison Sports community and as a result of this situation, we have taken the action to release the current student-athlete from the program."

Screenshots of the messages showed the Leipsic brothers and their peers making crude comments on several different topics. The NHL released a statement Wednesday condemning such behaviour, and one Capitals spokesperson said the team "will handle the matter internally," in regard to Brendan's involvement.

Brendan also issued an apology on Twitter after the screenshots were released.

Jeremy was in his sophomore season with the Bisons after playing parts of three campaigns with the Portage Terriers of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League.