All-American goalie Blair Allison has decided to bypass an opportunity to try out for the Canadian national team in order to return to the University of Maine for his senior season.

“I could have played for my country against world class competition. It was a chance to see the world for free,” said Allison. “But I feel more comfortable at Maine. I’ve got a good situation at Maine. Coming back is in my best interest. There’s a little more I want to accomplish here. I want to get my marketing degree and finish what we started.”

However, Maine won’t be able to play in the NCAA tournament for the second straight year as the result of NCAA sanctions against the hockey program. Maine is appealing the NCAA ban.

“We can’t count on [winning] the appeal,” said Allison, who is one of the Bear tri-captains. “It’s an unfortunate situation but we have to make the best of it. We have to try to bring back the pride of Maine hockey and the tradition. We’ve got to work hard and not do anything to disrespect the program. Most of the guys are coming back and we want to prove that we have a good team.”

Senior forwards Tim Lovell and Brad Mahoney and sophomore defenseman Brett Clark are the Bears who aren’t returning.

Barring injury, Allison should set the school’s career record for wins, saves and games played this season.

He has a 62-22-13 record.