Arizona State University reviews hockey player's collapse during outdoor workout

An internal review by Arizona State University has found that hockey coaches failed to submit a training plan for approval prior to an August 20 outdoor workout that left defenseman Matthew Mayich incapacitated. The session, led by former Green Beret Tim Ziesel, involved intense calisthenics and sprints in temperatures between 86 and 89 degrees Fahrenheit.

Mayich, a 21-year-old St. Louis Blues draft pick, suffered what his family attorney, Rob Carey, describes as exertional heat stroke that reduced oxygen flow to his brain. Carey stated there is “no hope of recovery” for the athlete. While the university's initial findings assign no direct blame to specific individuals, the report noted that the coaching staff did not seek review from the school’s strength and conditioning coaches for the activities.

In response, ASU plans to establish a “blue-ribbon advisory panel” to provide recommendations for future outdoor athletic activities and emergency protocols. ASU head coach Greg Powers has expressed his intention to continue leading the program despite the scrutiny. The Arizona State police department is also investigating the incident, with a report expected to be sent to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office for independent review.