Michigan's Merrill suspended 12 games

Michigan Press Release

The University of Michigan announced Saturday that sophomore defenseman Jon Merrill has been suspended for the first 12 games of the season due to a violation of team rules.

“Jon has an obligation to the team and he did not live up to those responsibilities,” said Michigan head coach Red Berenson. “He needs to be accountable to his teammates and this program both on the ice, around campus and in the community.”

Merrill posted 25 points (seven goals, 18 assists) as a freshman in 2010-11, the fourth-best point total for a freshman defenseman in school history. He was named to the All-U.S. College Hockey Online second team and the Inside College Hockey All-Freshman Team. Merrill received conference recognition, earning All-CCHA Second Team and CCHA All-Rookie team honors.

Merrill will be eligible to return to the team at Miami on Friday, Nov. 11.