Harvard women’s hockey coach Katey Stone retires amid investigation for mistreatment of players
Katey Stone, the head coach of the Harvard women’s hockey program, has announced her retirement from coaching.
The announcement comes amidst an investigation with her and the program for the mistreatment of players. Reports surfaced in March of numerous incidents of hazing that forced alcohol consumption and sexualized traditions on the players, the most notable incident being an annual “naked skate” that went back decades, with the most recent one occurring just a day after the Boston Globe initially reported on the investigation. Stone was also reported to have downplayed injuries and mental health on the team, as well leading derogatory chants directed at players and pitting them against each other to get on her good side, something one player’s parent referred to as a “mental health Hunger Games”.
The news was announced on Tuesday morning by the school itself along with a statement. There was no mention of the investigation in the statement or the status of the review, but a school spokesperson told the Athletic that it was complete. At this moment, there’s no confirmation on the relation between that review concluding and the retirement of Stone.
“It has been my distinct pleasure to represent Harvard and lead our storied program for nearly three decades,” said Stone in the statement. “The opportunity to coach and empower the amazingly talented women of Harvard Hockey has been both a personal and professional privilege. The relationships fostered with my players over the years has been the very best part of my job. Their personal accomplishments both at Harvard and beyond, along with our shared achievements, will always be a point of great pride and inspiration for me.
“The decision to retire from any profession is never an easy decision; for coaches, stepping down from the bench, leaving the program you have poured your heart and soul into for this many years, is especially hard. I believe a coach knows in their heart when it is time for change and I look forward to supporting the next chapter in Harvard Women’s Hockey. I am grateful to my coaching colleagues and administrators who have supported my journey. Thank you to my players and alumni for sharing your lives with me. I will continue to root for each and every young woman who has come through our beloved program. It has been an honor of a lifetime to be your coach.”
Stone retires with appearances in 12 NCAA regionals, six Frozen Fours, and four national title games, along with nine Ivy League championships, 14 ECAC championships, 12 Beanpot titles, and the 1999 National Championship. She also served as Team USA’s head coach from 2010 to 2014, winning silver at the 2014 Olympic Games, along with gold and silver at the 2011 to 2013 World Championships and Four Nations Cups.