Head University of Denver men’s hockey coach Jim Montgomery announced today that freshman forward Justin Cole (Bryn Athyn, Penn.) will be leaving the program to re-join his junior team, the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders (USHL). Cole, 20, had yet to appear in a game for DU this season after being added to the Pioneers’ roster in mid-August.

“We wish Justin all the best as he pursues his goals and support his decision to return to the USHL,” says Montgomery. “He loves to play hockey and re-joining Cedar Rapids gives him a better opportunity to do that this season. Hopefully he can provide some veteran leadership on the RoughRiders and gain some valuable experience as he competes in his overage campaign at the junior level.”

In 59 appearances with Cedar Rapids last season, Cole registered 25 points on 12 goals and 13 assists. The 6’3”, 198-lb. forward skated with Vermont Academy (USHS) from 2013-15, tallying 36G-52A-88P in 61 games played.