Michigan hockey player Jon Merrill has been suspended for a violation of team rules, according a statement released today by Michigan coach Red Berenson.

Merrill, a sophomore defenseman, will miss the first 12 games of the season, including the first six games of CCHA play.

“Jon has an obligation to the team and he did not live up to those responsibilities,” said Berenson in the release. “He needs to be accountable to his teammates and this program both on the ice, around campus and in the community.”

Merrill, a Brighton native, had seven goals and 18 assists in his freshman season, the fourth-best point total for a freshman defenseman in school history. He was named to the All-U.S. College Hockey Online second team and the Inside College Hockey All-Freshman Team. Merrill was a second team and CCHA All-Rookie team selection.

Merrill was the team's lone All-CCHA Preseason First Team selection and last year had two goals in the Big Chill at the Big House.

He will be eligible to return to the team at Miami (Ohio) on Friday, Nov. 11.