Forward Max Garidner will be leaving the University of Minnesota hockey program.

The former Minnetonka High School standout played in 17 games as a freshman last season, tallying one goal and two assists.  However, concerns about playing time led Garidner to notify head coach Don Lucia that he’ll be playing junior hockey next season.

“We had a good conversation and he was disappointed in the ice time he received last year and was concerned about playing time in the upcoming season,” Lucia said in a team-released statement.

“Leaving assures him the ice time he was looking for. I am disappointed he is leaving, but I understand his decision and wish him all the best.”

He will reportedly join the Dubuque Fighting Saints of the United States Hockey League, who drafted him Monday.

Garidner was selected by the St. Louis Blues in the third round of the 2010 NHL Draft.

Sports Reporter Sam Gordon contributed to this report.