Arizona State hockey players send letter to school president about teammate’s collapse

TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) — Seven Arizona State hockey players have penned a letter to school president Michael Crow, requesting the coaching staff be put on administrative leave until an independent investigation into the collapse of teammate Matthew Mayich is concluded. The letter, sent anonymously through attorney Timothy J. Casey due to fear of retribution, raises concerns over the team's initial investigation into the incident.

Mayich, a defenseman drafted by the St. Louis Blues, experienced exertional heat stroke during a workout on August 20, leading to his hospitalization and a prognosis suggesting he may not recover. The players' letter alleges several aspects of Arizona State’s exertional heat policy were not adhered to before and after Mayich's collapse, including inadequate acclimatization, rest periods, and fluid access.

The players demand the coaching staff responsible for the session be placed on administrative leave and propose an external investigation to ensure fairness.