Hamilton-native Matthew Mayich, a promising NHL prospect, is facing a critical situation after a training incident at Arizona State University led to his hospitalization, as disclosed by his family’s legal representative. Attorney Rob Carey shared with CBC Hamilton that the 21-year-old’s parents, residing in Stoney Creek, Hamilton, have been by his side at the hospital, expressing gratitude for the support received from their Canadian well-wishers.
Mayich, a pick of the St. Louis Blues, collapsed during a workout session at Arizona State University, suffering from exertional heatstroke resulting in oxygen deprivation to his brain. An article in BMJ Medicine highlights exertional heatstroke as a significant cause of athlete mortality during physical activity, with potential long-term health implications for survivors.
Arizona State University acknowledged a student on the hockey team collapsing during a training session on August 20 but refrained from revealing the identity due to privacy considerations. The university is undertaking a review led by senior vice-president James Rund to assess the incident, workout procedures, and university policies while respecting privacy obligations towards the student-athlete and his family.
According to Carey, the university has been reticent about the incident details, but his investigation suggests that Mayich underwent an intense workout regimen without breaks or water for over an hour. Notably, immediate immersion in cool water, a recommended treatment for heatstroke, was reportedly not provided when Mayich collapsed.
Tempe, the location of the incident, recorded a temperature of approximately 31 degrees Celsius on the day, and university police were notified of the player’s collapse around 8:30 a.m. ASU has stated that inquiries regarding the workout are part of their ongoing review process.
Carey emphasized the family’s quest for a thorough investigation involving witness statements, surveillance footage, and digital communications to understand the circumstances leading to the incident. The ASU Police Department confirmed an investigation into the matter, following standard protocols for such severe incidents, with no implications of criminal intent.
Matthew Mayich, known for his contributions to the hockey community in Hamilton, is remembered as a standout player and mentor to younger athletes, fostering values beyond the sport. The Hamilton Steel Hockey Club and former associates praised Mayich’s character and commitment to inspiring young players, expressing solidarity with him and his family during this challenging period.
