We all knew this was coming, Travis Busch was not offered a scholarship for next season and he then has made the decision to leave the University of Minnesota and continue playing elsewhere.
Busch, an academic All-Big Ten Conference honoree with a 3.6 grade-point average last semester, has nothing but positive things to say about Smith and the Gophers. "(Smith) understands where I'm coming from, and I understand where he's coming from," Busch said. "It's not like there's any bad blood or animosity. He's been a great coach, and I've learned a lot from him. "It's one of those things, a numbers game. That's why I've got to make a change. I've had a great time there; I love the coaches and players, and it's been a great experience."
According to the Pioneer Press Busch is being pursued by the likes of Winona State and Nebraska-Omaha.
Like I said above, we all knew this was coming. And I'm sure Travis did as well. It really is a numbers game and in order to accomdate the incoming infusion of talent Busch would have had to accept not only paying his own way through school but essentially zero minutes of playing time.
It is unfortunate and while I was critical of what he brought to each and every game I do believe he adds value to the team. A kid with this effort and ability to get things done is extremely valuable to make others around him better. A year from now nobody here will be saying how much better we would have been if Travis "What Else" Busch were still on the team, but he will be missed and hopefully someone can fill his role.