In a significant development following the tragic death of ice hockey player Matthew Mayich, seven teammates from Arizona State University (ASU) have voiced serious concerns regarding the circumstances surrounding his collapse during a workout. The players have requested an independent investigation and have recommended that the coaching staff be placed on administrative leave pending the outcome.
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Matthew Mayich, a 21-year-old sophomore defence player, suffered a heat stroke and subsequently lost oxygen to his brain during an outdoor training session on August 20. Transferring to ASU from Clarkson University in New York just days earlier, Mayich’s death has prompted scrutiny not only of the events leading up to his collapse but also of the university’s policies on heat safety.
In a letter submitted anonymously to ASU President Michael Crow on September 28, the players expressed concerns about potential retaliation from coaching staff should they speak out openly about their experiences. The letter, spanning 26 pages, outlines their allegations that proper protocols regarding heat safety protocols were not adhered to during the workout session.
The players recounted their fears of repercussions, noting that the head coach and assistants were all present during the incident and control vital factors such as playing time and scholarship opportunities for the athletes. As a result, the players collectively decided to submit their concerns anonymously in light of the potential risks involved.
In their communication, the players have called for the immediate placement of head coach Greg Powers and his staff on administrative leave until an external investigation is conducted. They believe that other team members are hesitant to come forward for similar reasons relating to fear of retaliation.
The appeal for an investigation follows the claims that the workout, led by Tim Ziesel, a former Green Beret, exceeded the allotted time under ASU’s Outside Consultants policy, running for over 75 minutes. The players asserted that Ziesel had not received appropriate approval from the university to lead such a session.
An inquiry led by James Rund, Senior Vice President of Educational Outreach and Student Services at ASU, concluded that water had been provided to athletes 20 minutes into the session. Conversely, the letter from Mayich’s teammates contends that hydration was not made available until at least 35 minutes into the workout, with only the first group of finishers receiving water, excluding Mayich himself.
The players further alleged that signs of distress were observed among some participants, including Mayich, who displayed visible disorientation prior to collapsing. The letter criticises the absence of emergency equipment at the scene, including cold-water immersion tubs, and suggests that staff lacked adequate training to identify symptoms of heat stroke.
According to the letter, the athletic trainer on duty failed to follow standard medical protocols, which require prompt cold-water immersion for athletes suffering from exertional heat stroke. The absence of timely medical intervention, the players argue, may have contributed to the tragic outcome of Mayich’s situation.
Alongside a call for an investigation, the players have requested assurances from the university that their positions on the team and scholarships would not be jeopardised during this process. Furthermore, they are urging the involvement of an independent agency outside of the university’s control to lead the investigation.
Rob Carey, the attorney representing Mayich’s family, has emphasised the courage of the seven players for stepping forward despite the risks they have taken regarding their collegiate futures. He highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability, urging President Crow to expedite the investigation on behalf of Mayich’s family.
Carey stated, “The players’ bravery in coming forward is commendable,” adding that families entrusting their children to the university deserve the assurance that all necessary measures are being taken for their safety.
In light of this tragedy, the players are seeking answers and justice, advocating that the investigation findings be made public. They are calling for an immediate response from university officials, underscoring that the welfare and safety of current and future student-athletes should be paramount. As the situation develops, the ASU community remains hopeful for clarity and accountability regarding the events that led to the untimely death of Matthew Mayich.