Re: Penn State Hockey 2015-2016
http://www.gopsusports.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/011916aac.html
Williamson Announces Decision to End Hockey Career
Junior defenseman Mike Williamson will no longer play hockey due to chronic injuries
Jan. 19, 2016
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- It was announced Tuesday afternoon by Penn State men's hockey head coach Guy Gadowsky that junior defenseman Mike Williamson (Leduc, Alberta) has decided to end his hockey playing career due to chronic injuries.
"Unfortunately and sadly, Mike Williamson informed us that, due to his health, he will not play hockey anymore." Gadowsky said at Tuesday's press conference. "He's been struggling with injuries for over a year now and the episodes get worse and worse. After talking with his family and the physicians he's come up with this decision.
"It's unfortunate because the guys on the team love him. He's an extremely popular player in the locker room. I think the whole team is really sad to hear this news. He will remain a part of us doing whatever he can. He's hungry to do that. He loves Penn State and is staying here to get his degree and help the program."
Williamson, who is majoring in kineseology, appeared in six games this season and 49 for his three-year career at Penn State. A 2013 NHL Entry Draft Pick by the Vancouver Canucks (6th round, 175th overall), the 6-4 209-pound Albertan was known for his powerful shot and big frame.
Williamson made 27 appearances as a freshman in 2013-14, tallying six points on two goals and four assists, while posting a minus-4 rating. Williamson also blocked 57 shots. In his sophomore season, Williamson had two points on a goal and an assist in 16 appearances with a minus-1 rating. This season, Williamson had one assist and a minus-2 rating.
Although the 2014-15 Academic All-Big Ten honoree is unable to play hockey at Penn State, Williamson will remain enrolled through the duration of his degree-earning curriculum with the help of the Penn State program.
The Nittany Lions, who continue to be ranked in both national polls at No. 14, return to action on Friday and Saturday for road games at Ohio State. Both games are set for 7 p.m. puck drops with BTN Plus ($) covering the live streaming. Both games will carry a radio broadcast on the Penn State Sports Network with live audio streaming through GoPSUnow and the Penn State Sports App.