GRAND FORKS, N.D. -- University of North Dakota men's hockey

coach Dave Hakstol has been suspended for two games and reprimanded

for profane language and a gesture he made at a referee during a

heated Saturday night game with Minnesota.

During the second period of game, which ended in a 1-1 tie, a

television camera showed Hakstol sticking up his middle finger at

referee Don Adam after the two discussed a penalty call.

Acting University of North Dakota athletic directors Betty

Ralston and Steve Brekke announced the suspension on Monday.

"We expect our coaches to keep themselves and their teams in

control at all times," Ralston said. "Profane language and poor

behavior on the part of our coaches and student-athletes is

unacceptable."

The Sioux have this week off before playing host to Denver on

Feb. 15-16. Hakstol will not coach the two-game series, UND said.

Western Collegiate Hockey Association Commissioner Bruce McLeod

said Hakstol violated the league's code of sportsmanlike conduct.

The WCHA issued a reprimand to Hakstol on Monday and said it

endorsed the UND suspension.

"We appreciate the rapid response and action taken by the

University of North Dakota today and we are in complete agreement

with that decision," the WCHA said in a statement.

Hakstol called Adam after the game to personally apologize, and

issued a statement Sunday.

"I would like to sincerely apologize to our fans, players and

entire program, as well as all college hockey fans, the WCHA and

Don Adam for my actions during the second period of last night's

game versus the University of Minnesota," Hakstol's statement

said. "I'm disappointed in myself for allowing my emotions and

frustrations to get the better of me. I pride myself in not

allowing this type of thing to occur.

"Most importantly, I am a parent before I am a coach, and I

understand the responsibility that we carry as coaches within the

WCHA to young hockey fans and families everywhere. I have evaluated

and feel terrible about my actions and can assure everyone that

such a thing will never happen again."

UND and Minnesota combined for 160 penalty minutes in Saturday

night's game, and Sioux forward Darcy Zajac and Gopher forward Tony

Lucia were given game disqualifications for fighting at the end of

overtime.