Arizona State University (ASU) has announced a mutual parting of ways with long-serving hockey coach Greg Powers, a decision that follows a series of troubling events concerning player health and safety. The announcement came on October 15, roughly two weeks after Powers was placed on administrative leave amid intense scrutiny regarding the team’s practices.
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Replacing Powers is former NHL coach Dave Hakstol, who has a commendable track record in both college and professional hockey. ASU’s Athletics Director, Graham Rossini, expressed enthusiasm about Hakstol’s appointment, highlighting his experience in cultivating successful programmes and nurturing players capable of reaching the highest echelons of the sport. “We welcome Dave Hakstol and his family to Arizona State University,” Rossini stated, emphasising his belief in Hakstol’s capacity to bring success to the Sun Devils’ hockey programme.
The decision to part ways with Powers comes in the wake of a serious incident involving player Matthew Mayich. On August 20, Mayich collapsed during a team workout led by a coach-without-affiliation to the university, a former Green Beret. Since then, Mayich has been hospitalised, with his family’s attorney stating that he has “zero chance” of recovery. This incident has raised alarms regarding the workout’s intensity and overall player safety.
In a statement released following the announcement of his departure, Powers expressed his heartfelt wishes for Mayich and his family, reiterating the seriousness of the situation. “Firstly and most importantly, I continue to hope for strength and healing for Matthew and his family,” Powers stated, before confirming his decision to step back from his coaching role. He conveyed gratitude to those who supported him throughout his tenure, especially to ASU hockey alumni, whom he described as beloved and invaluable.
Powers had been the head coach of the Sun Devils since 2010, steering the programme through significant growth and achievement. However, the circumstances surrounding Mayich’s collapse led to increasing voices of concern from players. On September 28, seven ASU hockey players submitted an anonymous letter to the university president, urging for the coaching staff to be placed on leave. They cited fears of retaliation as the reason for their anonymity. Highlighting a lack of separation from the coaching staff since the incident, the letter expressed a desire for safe conditions under which they could continue their sport.
In a parallel move, Mayich’s parents, John and Christina, publicly called for Powers’ removal earlier in October. Through statements shared with the media, they sought transparency and accountability regarding the incident that has profoundly affected their son. “We want the truth and we want it done in a way that lets the boys focus on hockey instead of wondering whether their coaches think they talked,” they asserted, stressing the importance of a safe environment for all players.
The aftermath of these events reveals significant concern within the hockey community at ASU. Many are now calling for an independent investigation into the practices and protocols related to player safety, particularly regarding the workout that led to Mayich’s collapse. The desire for accountability extends beyond just the coaching staff, as players and families alike seek reassurance that the health and wellbeing of athletes are being prioritised.
As the university transitions to new leadership under Hakstol, the hope is that he will implement rigorous health and training standards, fostering a secure space for players to thrive both on and off the ice. The ASU hockey programme now faces an uphill battle as they work to regain trust amongst players, families, and supporters, while navigating the complexities of ensuring athlete safety in high-pressure environments.
The unfolding situation serves as a stark reminder of the obligations sports programmes have towards their athletes, especially regarding their health and wellbeing. As the new season begins, all eyes will be on ASU hockey, as they strive to overcome adversity while honouring the legacy of their teammate, Matthew Mayich.