October 2, 2026

President Michael Crow
VIA ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION

Dear President Crow,

I am writing to you with my second update on ASU’s administrative review of the circumstances surrounding ASU hockey player Matthew Mayich’s collapse during training at ASU on Aug. 20, 2026. This follows my initial update to you on Sept. 21, 2026.

ASU is retaining former Supreme Court of Arizona Chief Justice Scott Bales to lead an independent review of the facts that have been identified by the university, attorneys for the Mayich family, attorneys for members of the ASU hockey team, law enforcement agencies, and others as appropriate. Justice Bales will review and make recommendations regarding the following matters:

• Planning and approval of outdoor athletic activities, including strength and conditioning activities, practices and competitions.
• Staffing, policies and procedures for outdoor athletic activities, including adjustments necessary to address changing conditions or adverse reactions.
• Preparation for and response to adverse events or reactions occurring during outdoor athletic activities.
• Use of outside consultants in the planning and delivery of strength and conditioning and practice activities.

Justice Bales will identify and engage participants necessary for a complete and thorough review and may retain additional assistance from others as needed.

ASU student-athletes will be invited to provide information and suggestions, and to ask questions, with options for confidential and anonymized participation. The Vice President of Student Services, Joanne Vogel, will serve as university liaison to Justice Bales to assist with any needed information and resources.

Justice Bales served on the Arizona Supreme Court for more than a decade, including five years as Chief Justice. Before taking the bench, he practiced law for nearly 20 years.

ASU has requested that this independent review be completed by early December. Further updates will be provided as additional information is available.

Sincerely,

James Rund
Senior Vice President, Educational Outreach and Student Services

Cc: Chad Sampson, Arizona Board of Regents
Joanne Vogel, VP Student Services, Arizona State University