DURHAM, NC - The Intercollegiate Men's Lacrosse Coaches Association and family members of late Siena University Men's Lacrosse Head Coach Liam Gleason are paying tribute to his memory throughout this season with a new coaches' initiative and Humanitarian Award created in his name. Coach Gleason tragically passed away in December after just turning 41. 

During the weekend of February 13-15, men's lacrosse coaches across all three NCAA divisions will be wearing green ribbon "LG" lapel pins on the sidelines. The IMLCA has distributed over 1,000 pins to its members along with educational resources highlighting organ donation, a cause Liam championed. In his final act of generosity, Liam saved the lives of four people and enhanced the lives of several others through the gift of organ donation.

As it aligns with the 2026 Siena Men's Lacrosse home opener vs. Hofstra on Saturday, Feb. 14 at noon on Hickey Field, IMLCA members from across the country will be joining together to remember their fellow coach, teammate, and friend while sharing insight into the impact Coach Gleason had within the sport of lacrosse and throughout the communities which he remained a part of over the years.

"The IMLCA honors Coach Gleason as one of our best," said IMLCA Executive Director J.B. Clarke. "He exemplified all that we stand for as men, coaches, and the standard bearers for the sport of lacrosse. We are delighted to honor Liam, and want his family, friends and players to know we stand with them now and forever." 

The Liam Gleason Humanitarian Award, established in January 2026 by family members, former coaches, and friends close to Liam, will honor its inaugural group of recipients exemplifying leadership, unwavering support for teammates and staff, outstanding sportsmanship, and meaningful community involvement.

Each NCAA Division I Men's Lacrosse Program will select a student athlete from their team to receive the Liam Gleason Humanitarian Award at the conclusion of the 2026 season. Voted on by players, coaches, and staff, this honor is awarded to the individual on the roster whose teammates most aspire to emulate. The 77 individual recipients exemplifying Liam's spirit will be named and recognized in May 2026. Details for the announcement and plans for recognition will be forthcoming later this spring.

The program will provide the opportunity for Coach Gleason's legacy to live on for years to come, and something for his family and children to witness.

"Being a light in the world means spreading kindness, love, and positivity to those around you - helping dispel darkness and negativity," said Sue Gleason, Liam's mother. "Simple acts of compassion can illuminate the lives of others and inspire them to do the same. Liam was that light in the world, and even though his physical presence is gone, his light continues to shine." 

As previously announced in December, The Coach Liam Gleason Memorial Lacrosse Scholarship was established by friends and family to honor the profound impact Liam had as a coach, mentor, and friend to so many players. This scholarship will be awarded to student athletes on the Siena Men's Lacrosse team who embody the leadership, dedication, and team-first spirit that Liam exemplified.  

Additional information can be found using the following links:
The Liam Gleason Humanitarian Award
The Coach Liam Gleason Memorial Lacrosse Scholarship
Organ Donation Educational Resources & To Register to Become a Donor