Arizona State Hockey Players Demand Coach Leave After Tragedy

Arizona State hockey players have formally requested that the university's coaching staff be placed on leave. The players sent a letter to school president Michael Crow, urging an independent investigation into the incident that led to defenseman Matthew Mayich's coma. Mayich collapsed during an outdoor team workout on August 20, the first day of team activities. The players detailed that the workout was unusually intense, involving punishment for those falling behind, and that Mayich displayed signs of disorientation.

Concerns were raised that Mayich did not receive water during the 75-minute session and that the coaching staff's response before emergency services arrived was insufficient. The players stated in their letter that they fear retaliation from head coach Greg Powers and his staff regarding playing time and scholarships if they share details. Mayich's attorney previously indicated there was "zero chance of recovery" due to oxygen loss to his brain following the collapse.