October 28, 2009
Wisconsin Loses One Freshman, Gains Another
CHN Staff Report
MADISON, Wis. — Wisconsin will have one freshman out this weekend, but one new one in.
Forward Craig Smith, a Madison native, will be out for both non-conference games against New Hampshire at home. Smith was called for checking from behind and given a game disqualification in last Saturday's game against Minnesota State. That carries an automatic one-game suspension. Wisconsin's athletic department decided to add a game of their own.
On the player, the Mavericks' Geoff Irwin was injured, and will miss this weekend's series.
“I know that Craig feels remorse for the incident,” said head coach Mike Eaves. “He will learn and move forward.”
Through the first four games of his collegiate career, Smith has two assists and eight shots on goal.
Meanwhile, Derek Lee has been cleared by the NCAA and will officially join the Badgers. The 5-foot-10, 165-pound forward began practicing with the Badgers last week after his initial eligibility waiver was received by the NCAA Eligibility Center. Prior to last week, Lee had been watching practice from the sidelines.
Today, the NCAA approved Lee's initial eligibility waiver, which makes him eligible to practice, compete and receive athletic aid.
Lee played for the Victoria Grizzlies of the BCHL last season, posting 18 goals and 71 points in 70 games to rank second on the team. His team captured the league's regular-season title. Prior to last season, Lee skated two years with Salmon Arm of the BCHL. He led the team with 25 goals and 83 points in 63 games during 2007-08 and scored 18 goals and 48 points in 56 games in 2006-07 as a teammate of current Badger goaltender Scott Gudmandson.
