Wilson reinstated to hockey program

Maine Coach Tim Whitehead said Monday that Dave Wilson, a senior goalie, has been reinstated to the men's ice hockey program. Wilson had been suspended by the athletic department after he was arrested in April for alleged domestic assault. The Penobscot County district attorney's office dropped the criminal charge against Wilson in June because of insufficient evidence.

"(Maine athletic director) Blake James and I met and I've spoken with David, and so has Blake," Whitehead said. "He's been cleared to participate and he'll have no further university punishment.

"Being suspended for three months was a reminder for him to be careful when he's out in public. Dave has told me that he's learned a valuable lesson in how to carry himself."

Wilson is allowed to resume practicing and training with the hockey program. Wilson will be one of three goalies in the fold this fall for the Black Bears, joining sophomore Scott Darling and incoming freshman Shawn Sirman of Sudbury, Ont.

"What's exciting for our team is that we know as a whole that goaltending is going to be stronger than last year," Whitehead said. "And we know we have a good goalie coming in. There's more depth, more experience, more talent and more options."