Arizona State Hockey Coach Placed on Leave After Player Collapse

Arizona State University has placed hockey coach Greg Powers on paid administrative leave following the collapse of a player during a workout. The player, Matthew Mayich, remains hospitalized and is unlikely to recover, according to his family’s attorney.

Assistant coach Mike Corbett will temporarily replace Powers, with an interim coach to be announced soon. The university has not specified the duration of Powers’ leave.

Mayich, a 21-year-old sophomore from Ontario, collapsed on August 20 during a “wind-down” exercise with a medicine ball. The reported high temperature on that day exceeded 100 degrees. However, the school claimed the workout occurred when temperatures ranged from 86 to 89 degrees.

“When running, Matthew appeared to struggle, and then in rapid succession stumbled, dropped the medicine ball, and fell to the ground,” the school report stated. “He attempted to get up and resume running but fell to his knees.”

Coaches and players advised Mayich to remain down, while an athletic trainer attempted to cool him using iced towels and cold water. Mayich was initially responsive, but his condition worsened.

Mayich’s parents, John and Christina, criticized the university’s decision to place only Powers on leave. They argue this action is insufficient due to Powers’ close relationship with the assistant coach who remains at the helm.

The university faces further scrutiny as seven other players have challenged its account of events. These players claimed the workout, conducted by consultant Tim Ziesel, was not approved according to university policy. They described it as “grueling” and “military-style.” They asserted that adequate water breaks were not provided and emergency equipment was missing.

“The term ‘military style workout’ is a term that was made up out of thin air,” Ziesel stated. “The actual workout would be considered easy by a high school varsity football or basketball team.”

Allegations in the players’ letter suggest Mayich was left in the sun for several minutes post-collapse. Limited cooling resources were available during the incident.

The students have requested the staff involved in the workout be placed on leave pending the results of an independent investigation.

Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell confirmed the ASU Police Department’s ongoing investigation into the incident. Following its completion, her office will conduct a thorough review.

In: Heat Recovery Arizona Hockey