This blog post details the life and enduring legacy of Liam Gleason, the former head coach for the Siena University men’s lacrosse team, who passed away at the age of 41 on December 3, 2025, due to injuries from a fall at his home. The lacrosse community in the USA and globally is mourning his loss, remembering him as a transformative coach, mentor, and beloved figure.
Liam Gleason’s Early Journey: From Player to Coach
Liam Gleason’s path in lacrosse began on the fields of Long Island, where he emerged as a standout player. His collegiate career saw him excel at Adelphi University before transferring to the University at Albany. He was a pivotal figure in the Great Danes’ journey to the NCAA quarterfinals in 2007 and was subsequently selected in the 2007 Major League Lacrosse Supplemental Draft by the New Jersey Pride.
His coaching journey commenced at Siena University as an assistant and defensive coordinator from 2008 to 2010, where his contributions were key to the program’s first MAAC Tournament Championship and NCAA Tournament appearance in 2009. Demonstrating his pioneering spirit, he then became the inaugural head coach for The College of Saint Rose in 2011, diligently building their program from the ground up. Before his return to Siena, Gleason served as an associate head coach at UAlbany for seven seasons, accumulating invaluable experience. In June 2018, he embraced the challenge of returning to Siena University as the 10th head coach, poised to leave an indelible mark.
Transforming Siena Lacrosse: A Legacy of Success
Gleason’s leadership at Siena spanned seven transformative years, guiding the program from multiple losing seasons to unprecedented heights. His vision culminated in the Saints winning their fourth MAAC title in 2025 – their first conference championship in over a decade – earning another coveted NCAA Tournament appearance.
- Player Development: He coached an impressive 35 All-MAAC selections, including nine First Team honorees. The 2025 season alone saw a record 13 All-MAAC awards for the team, a testament to his coaching prowess.
- Academic Excellence: Gleason championed academic success with equal fervor, fostering an environment where student-athletes thrived both on and off the field. This commitment resulted in 64 All-MAAC Academic team members between 2023 and 2025, with a program-record 23 in 2025.
- Accolades: His holistic approach and unwavering dedication earned him well-deserved Coach of the Year honors from both the Eastern College Athletic Conference and the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference in May 2025.
The “Players’ Coach”: Gleason’s Enduring Philosophy
Liam Gleason’s coaching philosophy was deeply rooted in culture building, genuine mentorship, and fostering profound care. Affectionately known as a “true players’ coach” and a “gentle giant,” he possessed a rare ability to forge personal connections with his athletes, serving as both a trusted friend and a respected leader. This unique bond created enduring relationships that extended far beyond the lacrosse field.
- Culture as Foundation: Gleason firmly believed that a strong culture was the bedrock of success. He meticulously defined work ethic, standards, and expectations, ensuring players understood their roles both on and off the field.
- Instilling Character: His ultimate aim was to instill character and a powerful team identity, significantly strengthening the Siena lacrosse program’s cultural core.
- Tributes: Former players and colleagues consistently highlighted his immense love and dedication. Siena President Chuck Seifert eloquently described Gleason as “more than a coach; he was a beacon of positivity” and “universally loved and admired.”
An Outpouring of Grief and Unwavering Support
The news of Gleason’s sudden passing sent shockwaves through the Siena University and broader lacrosse communities, resulting in widespread grief. The community immediately rallied around his family: his wife, Jaclyn, and their three children: Kennedy, Penn, and Tate.
- GoFundMe Campaign: A verified GoFundMe campaign was swiftly established, quickly surpassing $500,000 in donations, a powerful testament to the vast network of people impacted by Gleason’s life.
- Organ Donation: In a final, selfless act, Gleason, a committed organ donor, was taken to surgery at Albany Medical Center to donate his organs. Dozens of people, including Siena players and members of the University at Albany athletic community, participated in a deeply moving “honor walk” to pay their respects.
- Funeral Services: Funeral services were held on December 6 at the UHY Center in Loudonville, New York, bringing together countless individuals whose lives he touched.
You can contribute to Liam Gleason’s family and continue his legacy of generosity. Support the Gleason Family on GoFundMe →
A Lasting Legacy of Inspiration
Liam Gleason’s passing is indeed a “sudden, senseless loss” that deeply impacted the lacrosse community and far beyond. Yet, his memory serves as a poignant reminder to celebrate a life lived with unwavering purpose, passion, and profound commitment to others. His exceptional ability to transform a program, nurture talent, and meticulously build character in student-athletes stands as a testament to his extraordinary abilities.
Gleason’s legacy is one of enduring inspiration, indelibly marked by MAAC titles, remarkable academic achievements, and the countless lives he profoundly shaped. His spirit of selflessness, powerfully demonstrated by his organ donation and the immense outpouring of support through the GoFundMe campaign, will continue to inspire for generations. Though he is gone, his unforgettable impact on Siena University, the sport of lacrosse, and every individual he touched will be felt for generations, truly leaving an “unforgettable mark on the hearts of many.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Liam Gleason?
Liam Gleason was the beloved former head coach of the Siena University men’s lacrosse team, a transformative mentor, and a standout player at Adelphi University and the University at Albany. He passed away at age 41, leaving behind a significant legacy in the lacrosse community.
What was Liam Gleason’s coaching philosophy?
Known as a “players’ coach” and “gentle giant,” Gleason’s philosophy centered on culture building, genuine mentorship, and fostering deep personal connections with his athletes. He aimed to instill character and a strong team identity, prioritizing holistic development.
How can I support Liam Gleason’s family?
A verified GoFundMe campaign has been established to support his wife, Jaclyn, and their three children. Contributions help provide for his family during this difficult time.
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