Former University of Michigan hockey players sue, alleging years of hazing, sexual abuse

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White House Headlines - September 11, 2026

White House Headlines - September 11, 2026

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) – Sixteen former University of Michigan hockey players say coaches and staff turned a blind eye to sexualized hazing inside the program for years.

In a 74-page lawsuit filed Wednesday against the school and the board of regents, the plaintiffs, identified only as John Doe 1 through 16, allege that team members in the hockey program were subjected to “standard hazing traditions.” The sixteen plaintiffs were members of the University of Michigan Men’s Hockey Team from 1984 to 2001.

The lawsuit claims coaches knew about the hazing but failed to stop or report it, claiming the behavior was even encouraged as “a form of team bonding.” Nearly all the players listed in the suit were at the university on an athletic scholarship.

“Enduring sexual abuse was required to be a member of the Michigan Men’s Ice Hockey team during this time period,” the lawsuit alleges.

The alleged hazing included being forced to drink excessive amounts of alcohol........

© The Hill