Arizona State University has initiated an independent review following the collapse of NHL prospect Matthew Mayich during a workout in August. The review aims to provide recommendations on safely training athletes outdoors and responding to adverse events. Mayich’s family lawyer expressed concerns that the review may not address accountability for the incident.
A separate report released in September revealed that Mayich collapsed during a training session at Sun Angel Stadium on ASU’s Tempe campus. It was found that the hockey coaches did not submit a training plan for review before the session. Mayich, currently hospitalized, is described by his parents as a fighter, with the family hoping for his recovery despite the challenging circumstances.
The family and teammates of Mayich have raised questions about the workout and the response of coaches and school officials to his collapse. Allegations include the lack of water provision during the intense outdoor session. Following these concerns, ASU placed hockey coach Greg Powers on paid administrative leave.
An independent review led by former Chief Justice Scott Bales will focus on planning and approving outdoor athletic activities, staffing policies, procedures for outdoor athletics, and responding to adverse events. Student athletes at ASU will have the opportunity to participate in the review anonymously. The review is expected to be completed by early December.
The Mayich family’s lawyer emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the incident to determine accountability and ensure such tragedies are prevented in the future. The lawyer urged ASU to expand the scope of the review to address key questions and make the findings public. ASU has appointed an assistant coach to lead the hockey team while Powers is on leave.
ASU is yet to respond to the family’s concerns. Arizona State Legislature House and Senate education chairs have welcomed the independent review, highlighting the importance of an unbiased investigation. Mayich, a former player for the Hamilton Huskies and the Ottawa 67’s, was drafted by the St. Louis Blues in the 2023 NHL draft.
