A 21‑year‑old Arizona State University hockey player, Matthew Mayich, collapsed during an outdoor training session on August 20 and was rushed to a hospital where doctors are investigating a possible cardiac event.
Community Rallies Around Young Athlete
Mayich, a sixth‑round selection of the St. Louis Blues in the 2023 NHL Draft, had previously excelled at Clarkson University before transferring to Arizona State for the current season, bringing with him a record of over 250 Ontario Hockey League games and 15 points as a true freshman.
The news sparked a swift response from the Canadian‑Croatian Chamber of Commerce, which organized a virtual prayer session on August 25, inviting family members and supporters to join in a collective plea for his recovery.
Victoria Beara, Mayich’s cousin, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, describing his impact on teammates and the broader community as a “blessing” and urging continued prayers for his healing.
Arizona State officials confirmed the incident and said they are providing assistance to Mayich, his family, and fellow student‑athletes, though they declined to share further medical details or comment on the specifics of the training session.
The university’s statement emphasized a commitment to player welfare during what is recognized as a challenging time, while also acknowledging the significance of Mayich’s contributions on the ice and in the locker room.