Boston University

Boston University hockey player suspended for season amid gambling investigation

Boston University forward Nick Roberto (15) looks to make a deflection during the NCAA Northeast Regional hockey playoffs at Verizon Wireless Arena in Manchester, New Hampshire in March. The Boston Globe / Barry Chin

Nick Roberto, a junior forward for the Boston University men’s hockey team, will not return to the team this season, according to the school, amid a gambling investigation involving a player on the team.

The 21-year-old Wakefield native, serving a suspension from earlier this year, had yet to take the ice this season.

“Beyond confirming that Mr. Roberto will not play for the Boston University hockey team this season, federal privacy laws prevent us from discussing his status,’’ BU said in a statement.

News of the suspension was first reported Monday by College Hockey News, which said the suspension resulted from gambling activity during last season and that Roberto was not the only BU player involved.

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“However, we can say that several months ago, we heard rumors that a BU hockey player had engaged in gambling,’’ the university’s statement said. “Although the rumors did not involve gambling on either college or professional hockey games, we nonetheless immediately conducted a thorough investigation and turned the results over to the appropriate authorities at the NCAA. Based on that investigation, the NCAA made its own findings and took remedial action, and we would refer you to that organization for further information.’’

NCAA rules dictate that any collegiate player found gambling on any sporting event — regardless of the level on which its played or whether it’s in-person or online — face a minimum one-year suspension.

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WEEI reported Tuesday that Roberto, who led all sophomores on the team last season in goals, is not currently being investigated by any law enforcement agencies.

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