The world of lacrosse is mourning the profound loss of a true visionary and beloved coach, Liam Gleason. On Wednesday, December 3, 2025, Gleason, the highly respected head coach of the Siena men’s lacrosse team, tragically passed away at the age of 41 due to injuries sustained from a fall at his home. This devastating news has sent shockwaves through the entire sporting community, with many remembering him not just as an exceptional coach but as a mentor, a leader, and a truly inspiring “trending personality” whose impact stretched far beyond the field.
Liam Gleason’s journey in lacrosse began on the fertile grounds of Long Island, a hotbed for the sport. His prowess as a player quickly became evident, leading him to Adelphi University before he transferred to the University at Albany. It was at UAlbany that Gleason truly shined, contributing significantly to the Great Danes’ remarkable run to the NCAA quarterfinals in 2007. That same year, he helped secure the America East Conference championship, showcasing his strategic mind and unwavering dedication. His talent didn’t go unnoticed, as he was selected 33rd overall by the New Jersey Pride in the Major League Lacrosse supplemental draft, a testament to his skill and commitment to the ‘sports’ he loved.
Gleason’s transition from player to coach was a seamless one, beginning his coaching journey at Siena in 2008 as a defensive coordinator. During this pivotal period, his tactical genius helped the Saints secure the 2009 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) championship, marking their inaugural appearance in the prestigious NCAA Tournament. His defensive strategies were ahead of their time, creating a formidable force on the field that set a new standard for the program. This early ‘MAAC title’ victory foreshadowed the greater successes that would define his career.
Following his initial success at Siena, Gleason took on the head coach role for The College of Saint Rose during its inaugural season in 2012, building a program from the ground up. He soon returned to his alma mater, UAlbany, in 2011, serving as an assistant coach and defensive coordinator. Here, his defensive blueprints were instrumental in guiding the Great Danes to multiple undefeated conference seasons and several America East Tournament victories. His commitment to excellence and his ability to cultivate disciplined, high-performing defenses earned him a reputation as one of the brightest defensive minds in collegiate lacrosse.
In 2018, Liam Gleason returned to Siena, this time taking the helm as head coach. For seven seasons, he steered the Saints with unwavering dedication and passion. His leadership culminated in a historic MAAC title in May 2025, their first such win in over a decade. This achievement was a testament to his relentless work, his strategic vision, and his profound ability to inspire his team. His exceptional performance was recognized universally, earning him the coveted “Coach of the Year” accolades from both the Eastern College Athletic Conference and the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference in May. Siena University President Chuck Seifert eloquently remembered Gleason as a figure who was “universally loved and admired,” highlighting the deep connections he forged within the community.
The circumstances of his passing, due to a traumatic brain injury sustained from a fall, are heartbreaking. Transported to Albany Medical Center, an “honor walk” was held as Gleason, who was an organ donor, was taken to surgery. This selfless act, even in tragedy, speaks volumes about the man he was—always giving, always inspiring.
His family—his wife, Jaclyn, and their three children, Kennedy, Penn, and Tate, along with his parents, Kevin and Susan, and his brother, Brendan—are in the thoughts of the entire lacrosse world and beyond. In a world constantly seeking the next big story, Liam Gleason’s profound influence reminds us that true impact transcends fleeting trends.
Liam Gleason’s legacy will forever be etched in the annals of Siena Lacrosse and the broader ‘sports’ community. His unwavering commitment, strategic brilliance, and profound ability to connect with players and colleagues alike made him a truly exceptional leader. As we reflect on his life, his coaching prowess, and his selfless final act, his spirit will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations in lacrosse. The impact of this truly admired figure, a celebrated personality within the lacrosse community, will endure, reminding us all of the power of passion, dedication, and the indelible mark one individual can leave on the world.
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