Arizona State coach Greg Powers has been placed on paid administrative leave as the university continues to examine the circumstances surrounding the Aug. 20 team workout that left sophomore transfer Matthew Mayich hospitalized, the school announced today.
Assistant coach Mike Corbett will lead the Sun Devils when the season opens this weekend. The university said an interim head coach will be named soon.
Mayich collapsed during the workout and has remained hospitalized since the incident. Today’s developments follow concerns raised by ASU hockey players about the circumstances surrounding the workout and Mayich’s condition.
“Our focus continues to be on Matthew and his family, and on our student-athletes to make sure they have the support they need during this time and as the season begins,” ASU athletic director Graham Rossini said via statement. “We have continued to collect as much information as possible. After thorough and careful deliberation, I believe this is the best move to provide stability for the hockey program.”
The NCHC, which includes ASU, said Wednesday it supports the university’s decision to place Powers on leave while the circumstances surrounding Mayich’s trauma are examined.
“The concerns raised by student-athletes deserve to be heard and thoroughly reviewed,” the NCHC said. “We will not prejudge the findings of that review.”
The conference said it will remain in contact with ASU regarding the university’s review and the steps being taken to support and protect its athletes. Mayich, a 21-year-old defenseman, transferred from Clarkson this offseason.