Albert Lea native Adam Royce has decided not to play for the Albert Lea Thunder this season.

Royce, an All-State honorable mention defenseman last season with the Tigers, informed the coaching staff Tuesday night of his decision. Royce was the team’s first tender at a May 14 press conference at the City Arena.

“I wish he would have stayed,” Thunder head coach Brad Zangs said. “I wish he would have given us a chance.”

Royce attended practice Monday, but was a no-show at practice Tuesday. Zangs said Royce came to the City Arena Tuesday night to discuss his decision. The news came as a surprise to the team.

“Juniors just isn’t for him,” Zangs said. “I offered him a trade and told him I’d help him out.”

For now the team still holds his rights because he signed as a tender.

Zangs said Royce had decided to focus on his academics instead of trying to balance hockey and school.

Assistant coach Brian Murphy believed the rigorous schedule of playing for a junior hockey team played a role in Royce’s decision to leave the team.

“Obviously it’s a loss,” Murphy said. “Royce is a kid that wants to move on. We parted on good terms.”

Royce was sought after by other NAHL teams initially and generated interest from Division I college hockey programs. He provided the team an instant link to the community and helped with the team’s visibility in Albert Lea.

The Thunder is left with seven defensemen, but the team is moving forward. Zangs said he has players in mind to fill the void and will wait until the USHL teams pick their rosters to see who is available. As for a possible return for Royce to the team, Zangs said that was not likely.

Royce could not be reached for comment.