Attorney: ‘Impartial’ police, not ASU, should run hockey player collapse probe

The case of Arizona State hockey player Matthew Mayich’s collapse during a team workout has raised concerns about the impartiality of campus police investigations. In a letter to ASU’s general counsel, attorney Rob Carey argues that an independent agency should take over the probe due to the inherent conflict of interest when university personnel investigate incidents involving their own students.

Carey’s argument is straightforward: even if the investigation is conducted with impeccable objectivity, it will inevitably be seen as tainted by institutional bias. The fact that ASU police are investigating themselves creates a perception problem that undermines the integrity of the process. This issue is not about questioning the professionalism or dedication of individual officers; rather, it’s about acknowledging the inherent power dynamics at play when university personnel investigate incidents on their own turf.

ASU has responded to Carey’s request with a statement that defers responsibility and emphasizes its commitment to reviewing policies and procedures. While this step is necessary, it does little to alleviate concerns about the credibility of the investigation. The university’s opaque response raises questions about whether ASU is prioritizing transparency and accountability or protecting its own interests.

The case also highlights broader issues within college athletics, where the pressure to win often takes precedence over athlete safety. The Professional Hockey Players’ Association has called for transparency and protection from retaliation in investigations like this one. This case serves as a reminder that universities must prioritize athletes’ well-being above all else.

If this incident had occurred at a different institution with a stronger track record on athlete safety or a more transparent investigative process, the response might have been very different. Would ASU’s opaque response be the same if it were not investigating itself? The stakes are high in this case, not just for Mayich and his family but also for the broader community of college athletes.

The outcome will set a precedent for how universities handle similar incidents in the future. Will ASU take steps to address the underlying issues of impartiality and transparency, or will it continue to prioritize its own interests? The reputation of Arizona State University hangs precariously in the balance. Can it regain the trust of its athletes, faculty, and the wider community by prioritizing transparency and accountability?

The fate of Matthew Mayich’s investigation is just one aspect of a larger conversation about athlete safety and university accountability. As colleges navigate the complexities of athletics, it’s essential to remember that student welfare should always take precedence over institutional interests. Anything less would be a dereliction of duty by those entrusted with their care.

The clock is ticking for ASU to get this right – not just for Mayich but for every athlete who steps onto its campus. Will it rise to the challenge, or will it succumb to the pressure of maintaining a clean image? The world is watching, and the outcome will have far-reaching consequences for years to come.