OMAHA, Neb. – University of Nebraska Omaha head hockey coach Dean Blais announced today that freshman goaltender Anthony Stolarz has chosen to leave the program and is expected to sign with the London (Ontario) Knights of the Ontario Hockey League.

“I'm obviously disappointed by Anthony's decision,” said Blais.  “He has been making a very challenging transition from the North American Hockey League to the WCHA, and we, as coaches, saw good progress from him in the first half of the season.  But ultimately, it's his decision where he wants to play, and we wish him the best in the next chapter of his career.”

Stolarz, a 6-6, 220-pound native of Jackson, N.J., appeared in eight games for UNO, starting seven.  He had a record of 2-5-0 with a 2.56 goals-against average and a .898 save percentage.  He earned his first career win with 20 saves in an 8-0 shutout of Alabama-Huntsville on Nov. 24, UNO's only shutout so far this season.  He also made 27 saves while backstopping the Mavericks to a 5-1 win over Minnesota State on Dec. 15.

The Mavericks return to action on Friday and Saturday, Jan. 11 and 12 when they visit Denver.  Friday's game begins at 9:07 p.m. CT and can be seen live on NBC Sports Network.  Saturday's game will start at 8:07 p.m. CT and can be seen on Root Sports.