Jeremy Finlayson has extended an apology to the LGBTQIA+ community for a homophobic slur he made at an opposition player during Gather Round after being handed a three-match suspension by the AFL.
On Wednesday, the league announced the sanction after finding the Yorta Yorta man had breached conduct rules with his comment.
Finlayson will also be made to attend AFL-approved Pride in Sport training at his own cost.
AFL general counsel said "that homophobia has no place in our game, nor in society" and the incident negatively impacted football's strive to create an inclusive environment for all.
He also acknowledged the clear admission and personal apology made by Finlayson in the day's following the incident was considered in their judgement.
"I take full responsibility of what happened on Friday night. My address to three quarter time and the words I used is very unacceptable in the game of football. We need to stamp it out and I'm very remorseful. I knew straight away that it's not acceptable and I take full responsibility of that," Finlayson said at the weekend.
The Port forward also expressed a want to "reflect and improve" and "make myself better".
On Wednesday, Finlayson issued another apology.
"The word I used has no place in our society or our game," he said via a Port Adelaide statement.
"Words can be very hurtful and what I said on Friday night was totally unacceptable.
"I unreservedly apologise again to the Essendon player, my teammates, Port Adelaide members and supporters and the LGBTQIA+ community for the distress I have caused.
"I accept the AFL's sanction and now look forward to reflecting on my behavior and seeking education to improve myself and understand the impact such comments can have on the broader community."
It came after Ian Roberts, former NRL player and the only rugby league or Australian rules player to come out publicly while still playing, said the apology fell short of addressing the key issue.
"Up until now I have yet to hear Jeremy apologising to the queer community. He has apologised to the player involved but he hasn't apologised to the community. It is a reference often used very specifically to attack gay men," Roberts told News Corp.
Port chair David Koch also extended an apology alongside Finlayson's saying "We do not underestimate the seriousness of this matter".
"On behalf of the Port Adelaide Football Club, I extend an apology to the Essendon player, the Port Adelaide community of members and supporters and the LGBTQIA+ community," Koch said.
"What was said is totally unacceptable and comments of this nature do not align with what our club stands for. Port Adelaide is a place for everyone so we are very disappointed with what occurred on Friday night."
Koch pointed to Finlayson's earlier admission and expression of remorse, and confirmed the club would provide education and offer family support.
He added the Power "look forward to the AFL applying consistency to such cases in the future".
