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Gopher Freshman Vannelli Leaves Hockey Program

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota freshman Tommy Vannelli of Minnetonka has decided to leave the Golden Gophers' hockey program.

Hockey coach Don Lucia made the announcement Tuesday.

Lucia says after a few weeks of trying to balance academics and athletics, Vannelli decided that college hockey "was not the best route for him at this time."

Lucia says the team accepts his decision.

Vannelli split last season between Minnetonka High School and the U.S. Under-18 team. The St. Louis Blues selected Vannelli in the second round of the 2013 NHL Entry Draft with the 47th overall pick.

(© Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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