An Arizona State University hockey player was hospitalized following a collapse during practice last Thursday, The Athletic reported. The university confirmed it is investigating the circumstances surrounding the workout.
Matthew Mayich, 21, remained hospitalized as of Tuesday, according to a person close to the family who spoke with The Athletic. Arizona State has not officially named the player. A spokesperson for the university stated, "The university offers its support for the student-athlete, their family and all our student-athletes during this difficult time."
Tempe Fire Medical Rescue responded to a report of a "heat-related illness" at 8:31 a.m. last Thursday at Sun Angel Stadium, an open track and field facility. Crews treated a patient at the scene before transporting them to a local hospital. Phoenix had been under an extreme heat warning that week, with temperatures reaching 92.5 degrees Fahrenheit on Thursday morning and a high of 106 degrees Fahrenheit in the afternoon.
It remains unclear whether the workout was officially sanctioned by the team. NCAA rules permit college hockey teams to begin formal activities when classes commence, and Arizona State's fall semester began on Thursday.
Mayich, a sophomore defenseman, transferred to Arizona State this offseason after beginning his college career at Clarkson University. He was selected by the St. Louis Blues in the sixth round of the 2023 NHL Draft. Last season with Clarkson, he recorded 15 points from seven goals and eight assists. Prior to his college career, Mayich played over 250 games in the Ontario Hockey League.