ASU athlete had 'minimal to no water breaks' before collapse, attorney says
Key Points:
- Arizona State University hockey player Matthew Mayich remains in critical condition nearly two weeks after collapsing during an off-ice military-style dryland workout, which his family's attorneys describe as irresponsible and negligent due to minimal water breaks and excessive duration.
- The workout, lasting over an hour and led by a Green Beret hired by ASU's coaching staff, was described by players as the most grueling of their lives; Mayich, not acclimated to Arizona heat, collapsed on August 20, his first day of practice.
- ASU confirmed the workout was a team event supervised by coaches, training staff, and a third party with prior ties to the hockey team, and stated it is conducting a thorough review of the incident and related policies under senior vice president James Rund.
- Mayich's family's attorney is calling for an independent investigation outside of ASU's control, citing concerns that some teammates may fear speaking out, while the Green Beret's attorney emphasizes the need for a transparent inquiry and support for Mayich and his family.
- Mayich, an NHL draft pick by the St. Louis Blues and recent transfer from Clarkson University, has received public support from his former junior team, the Ottawa 67's, and the Blues organization.