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Penn State Hockey Player Gavin McKenna Waives Preliminary Hearing
Arraignment set for April 8 after alleged assault incident in downtown State College
Mar. 10, 2026 at 10:49pm
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Gavin McKenna, a Penn State men's hockey player, has waived his preliminary hearing in an assault case stemming from a January incident in downtown State College. The preliminary hearing was originally scheduled for March 11 but was waived by McKenna, moving the case forward to the next stage in the legal process. McKenna is now scheduled to be formally arraigned on April 8 before a judge.
Why it matters
This case highlights the challenges that student-athletes can face when involved in off-field legal issues, and how universities and athletic programs navigate these situations. It also raises questions about accountability and discipline for athletes accused of violent crimes.
The details
According to court records, the original felony aggravated assault charge against McKenna has been withdrawn, but he still faces misdemeanor simple assault and summary charges of harassment and disorderly conduct. Police allege that McKenna punched another man in the head during an incident on January 31 in downtown State College, causing injuries that required surgery, including having the victim's jaw wired shut.
- The preliminary hearing was originally scheduled for March 11 but was waived by McKenna.
- McKenna is now scheduled to be formally arraigned on April 8 before Centre County Judge Julia Rater.
The players
Gavin McKenna
A Penn State men's hockey player who is facing assault charges stemming from a January incident in downtown State College.
Guy Gadowsky
The head coach of the Penn State men's hockey team, who previously said that McKenna has continued participating in all team activities following the filing of charges.
Judge Julia Rater
The Centre County judge before whom McKenna is scheduled to be formally arraigned on April 8.
What they’re saying
“Despite the legal situation, Penn State men's hockey head coach Guy Gadowsky previously said that McKenna has continued participating in all team activities following the filing of charges.”
— Guy Gadowsky, Penn State men's hockey head coach (nittanysportsnow.com)
What’s next
The case is expected to move forward through the court process in the coming weeks, though it continues to carry the potential for an early settlement.
The takeaway
This case highlights the complex issues that can arise when student-athletes are accused of violent crimes, and the need for universities to balance accountability, discipline, and support for their athletes during such legal proceedings.
