One of Gophers football’s projected starting linebackers, Sam Maresh, has left the University and plans to attend a junior college due to poor academic performance. Maresh’s father, Bill, said his son plans to attend an Anoka-Ramsey county community college this summer, and will likely remain there for the fall semester.

Maresh was a highly-touted recruit out of Champlin Park, but was diagnosed with congenital heart problems that required surgery in June of 2008, and missed the 2008 football season because of it. Maresh enrolled for the spring semester as a grayshirt, attending the University at his own expense and not practicing with the football team. Maresh was reshirted for the 2009 season.

In addition to his academic issues, Maresh has also received two citations for underage drinking this spring semester. Maresh has not ruled out a return to a Division I program if he can get his grades on track. Head football coach Tim Brewster said that he would not be opposed to Maresh returning if he resolves his personal issues and his grades get to where they need to be.