Declining minutes and three incoming freshmen defensemen was all the writing on the wall Colorado College blue liner Doug Leaverton, left, needed to know he would have little chance to play this upcoming season for the Tigers.

That’s why he has left the school and hopes to transfer to another hockey program.

“The way the (2010-11) season ended was a sign. I didn’t play the last four weeks,” he said. “I decided I need to pursue my career elsewhere. I’ve made some good friends and have gotten close with some of the guys in my class. It has been tough to leave but I have to do what’s right for my future.”

Leaverton filed the release and transfer paperwork with CC earlier this month and is off the roster. He said he has been in touch with Ohio State and Penn State about joining their programs. Under NCAA rules, the 6-foot-4, 210-pound defenseman from Painesville, Ohio will be unable to play this upcoming season but would be eligible to be a fifth-year senior.

“It’s unfortunate,” senior captain Nick Dineen said. “He was well liked by the team. I will miss him as will the rest of the team.”

Leaverton, who signed after 2009 No. 21 overall draft pick John Moore chose not to come to CC, is confident he can succeed in the new Big Ten league. He scored on his first shot as a Tiger in the 2009-10 season opener against Northeastern and finished with six points (five assists) in 48 games, including 18 in 2010-11.