Arizona State Puts Hockey Coach Greg Powers on Leave Amid Investigation into Matthew Mayich’s Collapse

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As ASU grapples with the fallout from a tragic player collapse, the university’s decision to place longtime coach Greg Powers on administrative leave marks a pivotal moment in a broader reckoning over athlete safety.

A horizontal, photorealistic image of Arizona State University’s hockey program in transition: assistant coach Mike Corbett addressing the team on the ice in Mullett Arena under arena lights, with a subtle sense of solemnity and focus — no text or logos.

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The Incident and Immediate Aftermath

On August 20, 2026, during an early morning outdoor workout at Sun Angel Stadium, 21‑year‑old defenseman Matthew Mayich collapsed. The workout, a “wind‑down” exercise involving running with a medicine ball, took place in temperatures ranging from 86°F to 89°F, with relative humidity between 46% and 51% . Mayich suffered exertional heat stroke, which severely reduced oxygen flow to his brain; according to his family’s attorney, he is "unlikely to recover" . ASU athletic trainers applied iced towels and water and called 911, but his condition deteriorated rapidly .

University Response and Internal Review

ASU launched an internal review led by Senior Vice President James Rund, focusing on policies, procedures, and the use of outside consultants . ASU Police also opened an investigation, with findings to be passed to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office . To date, 20 individuals—including student‑athletes—have been interviewed, and ASU has pledged a comprehensive, multidisciplinary review of its outdoor training protocols .