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Arizona State Hockey Appoints Dave Hakstol as Head Coach While Investigating Player’s Collapse
By Drooid · · How we work
Coaching Change Amid Ongoing Health Probe
Arizona State University announced the hiring of Dave Hakstol, a 58-year-old veteran of the National Hockey League, to lead the Sun Devils men’s hockey program. Hakstol joins from the Colorado Avalanche, where he has served as an assistant coach and power-play coordinator after head-coaching stints with the Philadelphia Flyers (2015-2018) and the Seattle Kraken (2021-2024). The appointment follows the resignation of former head coach Greg Powers, who “mutually agreed to leave” his position while the university continues its investigation into a severe outdoor workout incident.
Background of the Outdoor Workout Incident
On August 20, 21-year-old player Matthew Mayich suffered external heat stroke during an outdoor conditioning session, resulting in reduced oxygen flow to his brain and placement on life support. Medical officials have indicated that Mayich is unlikely to recover. The incident prompted the university to place Powers on administrative leave the previous month and to launch a comprehensive review of the workout’s planning and execution.
Official Statements and Responses
Powers, in his resignation statement, emphasized that his departure should not impede cooperation with investigators or the protection of players who have spoken up.
Rob Carey, attorney for the Mayich family, reiterated that the university’s focus has remained on Matthew since August 20 and called for a full-scope investigation led by former Arizona State Supreme Court chief justice Scott Balesto, with findings to be released publicly.
Investigation Process and Next Steps
The independent review, headed by Balesto, is slated for completion by early December. Its mandate includes assessing the safety protocols of the outdoor session and determining accountability for the decisions that led to the workout. In parallel, the Colorado Avalanche have filled Hakstol’s assistant role by hiring Brett McLean.
The coaching transition and the ongoing investigation underscore Arizona State’s effort to address player safety concerns while maintaining the competitiveness of its hockey program.
