University of Michigan Hockey Players File Federal Lawsuit Alleging Abuse

Sixteen former members of the University of Michigan men’s hockey team have filed a federal lawsuit. The complaint alleges sexual abuse and hazing rituals during their time with the program between 1984 and 2001.

Allegations Highlight Team Initiation Rituals

The lawsuit details various initiation practices. Freshmen reportedly faced forced shaving of genitals, excessive drinking, and consuming live fish. Additionally, one player recalls an incident involving upperclassmen taunting him with a blowtorch while he lay on a table.

Michael Pitt, attorney for the plaintiffs, commented on the allegations. He described the team’s culture as “ritualized, meticulously planned, and sadistic.” He asserted that enduring abuse was a requirement for team membership.

Accusations Against Head Coach Red Berenson

The lawsuit implicates Red Berenson, the head coach from 1984 to 2017, accusing him of ignoring the abuse. One plaintiff, known as John Doe 3, allegedly informed Berenson of his reluctance to participate in hazing. The complaint suggests Berenson pressured him by appealing to values of being a “Michigan Man” and “good teammate.”

Berenson, aged 86, disputes his involvement in the alleged misconduct. He admitted to some senior players managing initiation activities but claimed no complaints reached him. He described the conduct as potentially resulting from “captains getting too carried away,” rather than direction from staff.

University Response and Historical Context

Michigan spokesperson Paul Corliss labeled the allegations as “disturbing” but denied university responsibility. He noted that if any former athlete engaged in misconduct, they violated university policy. The university adopted its anti-hazing policy in 1982, positioning itself as a leader in this area.

The lawsuit surfaces amid other legal challenges for Michigan, including a previous case involving campus sports doctor Robert Anderson. This ended with the university agreeing to a $490 million settlement for over 1,000 athletes. The hockey-related allegations remain unproven in court.

OutKick followed up with the University of Michigan and continues coverage of the case.