Remembering Liam Gleason: A Lacrosse Legend Honored

A cherished member of the New York state lacrosse community, Liam Gleason, was celebrated in a heartfelt ceremony on Saturday. The Siena lacrosse coach tragically passed away earlier this week due to a head injury sustained from a fall at home. His legacy was honored during a moving funeral held at Siena’s Loudonville campus.

A Celebration of Life

During the service, Gleason’s players showcased their love and respect by placing flowers on the altar. They wore “Liam Strong” T-shirts adorned with the Siena and Albany mascots, signifying their pride in his connection to the Capital Region. Additionally, they displayed a license plate reading "518 Family" to further highlight their bond.

Life and Legacy

• Background: Gleason, a native of Long Island, made his mark as a standout player at Shoreham-Wading River High School before continuing his career at the University of Albany. He eventually took on the role of defensive coordinator and associate head coach for the Great Danes before becoming the head coach at Siena in 2018.

• Achievements: His leadership brought Siena notable success, including a MAAC championship in 2025.

Touching Tributes

Gleason’s young daughter, Kennedy, touched hearts during the service with an emotional reading. Expressing her dedication to the sport, she stated:

“I just want to say, I love my dad so much, and one of my goals this year is to be one of the best lacrosse players and get a scholarship for lacrosse.”

Her sweet words brought smiles to Gleason’s wife, Jaclyn, and applause from the attendees at the UHY Center.

Words from a Mentor

Scott Maar, Albany’s long-time head coach and Gleason’s mentor, shared poignant memories of their years together. Holding a lacrosse stick—symbolic of Gleason’s nickname "The Tree"—he praised Gleason’s accomplishments:

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to be in Liam’s life… This is overwhelming and it’s been overwhelming all week to receive the text messages, the phone calls, the outpouring of love from our lacrosse community.”

Maar expressed hope that the forthcoming matchup between Siena and Albany in March would serve as a healing moment for their community. He remarked on the profound impact Gleason had on countless lives through his love of the game:

“Liam touched so many of us, and the game is the reason he was able to touch so many of us.”

Final Thoughts

The legacy of Liam Gleason will undoubtedly continue to resonate within the lacrosse community. As friends, family, and players remember the joy he brought, they also aim to honor his memory by embracing the values he exemplified both on and off the field.

Join the Conversation

For lacrosse fans eager to share their memories of Gleason or learn about upcoming games, connect with the Lacrosse Community.

By focusing on the lives he touched and the lessons he inspired, Liam Gleason’s memory will live on as a beacon of love and dedication in the sport of lacrosse.