An Arizona State University hockey player is still hospitalized five days after collapsing during an outdoor practice session. The incident occurred on Thursday, coinciding with the first day of NCAA-approved activities for the men's hockey team. The university has not disclosed the player's name or condition due to medical privacy regulations.
Emergency services were called to Sun Angel Stadium at around 8:30 a.m. on Thursday for a reported heat-related illness. Reports suggest that high temperatures on that day may have contributed to the incident, with the Phoenix area experiencing temperatures of 90 degrees and a relative humidity of 46%.
The National Weather Service had issued an Extreme Heat Warning, noting that temperatures in Tempe reached as high as 104 degrees.
Dr. Hilary Fairbrother, an Emergency Medicine professor, indicated that heat-related illnesses can lead to serious complications and that symptoms can escalate rapidly. She noted that while most individuals with such conditions typically do not require hospitalization, heat can exacerbate existing health issues.
Brendon McDermott, director of the Heat and Hydration Optimization Lab at the University of Arkansas, highlighted that early morning practices can still pose risks due to higher humidity levels, which can hinder the body's cooling mechanisms. He suggested that a longer heat acclimatization protocol could benefit athletes training in warmer conditions.
