Release: Vannelli Leaves Hockey Program http://t.co/qviZGIXnh7
— Gopher Hockey (@GopherHockey) September 17, 2013
Lucia on Vannelli "After a few weeks of trying to balance academics & athletics, Tommy made deicision...college hockey was not best route.."
— Jason Gonzalez (@JGonStrib) September 17, 2013
Here's the latest out of Minneapolis. Apparently, Tommy Vanelli has already decided to leave the Minnesota Gophers hockey team before the season even begins. Sounds like the WHL could be a landing spot for Mr. Vanelli. The Minnetonka, Minnesota product was drafted 47th overall by the St. Louis Blues in the 2013 NHL Entry Level Draft.
MINNEAPOLIS — 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.
