Former Michigan hockey players sue over alleged hazing

Sixteen former University of Michigan hockey players have filed a federal lawsuit alleging they were subjected to ritualized sexual hazing during their time in the program between 1984 and 2001, according to a 74-page complaint filed Wednesday in federal court in Detroit. The plaintiffs, identified only as John Does, are suing the university and its Board of Regents under Title IX, alleging sex discrimination. The complaint describes forced nudity and genital shaving of incoming freshmen as part of team initiation, and some plaintiffs allege they were assaulted with razor handles. Other players allege their pubic hair was singed with a blowtorch and that their genitalia were tied to a hockey helmet filled with pucks. The plaintiffs say the abuse caused physical and psychological injuries, diminished educational and professional opportunities, and lost earnings. The lawsuit names legendary former coach Red Berenson, who led the Wolverines from 1984 to 2017 and compiled 848 wins, the fourth-most in NCAA history, along with two national championships.