Seven Arizona State hockey players have asked university President Michael Crow to place head coach Greg Powers on leave while an investigation continues into an offseason workout that left player Matthew Mayich with exertional heat stroke. Mayich is not expected to make a full recovery, according to the report published by sports.yahoo.com.
The players submitted the request anonymously through their attorney, Tim Casey. They said they were concerned about possible retaliation because Powers and his assistants remain responsible for decisions involving playing time, scholarships and roster positions. The seven players represent nearly one-fourth of the team, and they said other players did not sign because of similar concerns.
Their 26-page letter, sent Monday, challenged multiple conclusions from Arizona State's initial review of the Aug. 20 workout. The players said Mayich did not receive water and that the medical response after he collapsed was inadequate.
The workout was led by Tim Ziesel, a former Green Beret brought in by Powers. The players said water access during the drills was limited and that only those who completed exercises first were allowed brief access to bottles. They also said Powers did not appear to recognize how serious Mayich's condition was.
The players recommended that Shane Doan, a former Phoenix Coyotes player with ties to the program, oversee the team while the investigation proceeds. Arizona State's season is scheduled to open Friday against Lindenwood. The source did not say whether Powers has been placed on leave or provide a response from the university.
