A Tribute to Liam Gleason
A moving ceremony took place on Saturday to honor a cherished figure in New York lacrosse, Liam Gleason. Family, players, and friends gathered together in remembrance.
The Siena lacrosse coach, who was 41, tragically passed away earlier this week after suffering head injuries from a fall at his home.
A few days later, a funeral service was held at the school’s Loudonville campus, where he was commemorated alongside an awards ceremony.
During the service, Siena players honored Gleason by laying flowers at the altar. They wore shirts emblazoned with “Liam Strong” and carried license plates reading “518 Family,” in recognition of their deep connections to the Capital Region. The Albany team, Gleason’s alma mater, was also represented.
Originally from Long Island and a standout at Shoreham-Wading River High School, Gleason went on to play at the University of Albany. He served as defensive coordinator and associate head coach with the Great Danes before taking the helm at Siena in 2018.
His young daughter, Kennedy, took to the microphone to share her sports aspirations, earning smiles from her mother, Jaclyn, and enthusiastic applause from those present. “I just want to say, I love my dad very much. One of my goals this year is to be one of the best lacrosse players and earn a lacrosse scholarship,” she expressed.
Scott Mahr, Albany’s head coach and Gleason’s mentor, reminisced fondly about their relationship, recalling moments from their time together, including bringing a lacrosse stick to honor Gleason’s nickname, “The Tree.” He expressed pride in Gleason’s achievements, particularly his role in leading the team to the 2025 MAAC Championship.
Merle shared heartfelt sentiments about the impact Gleason had on those around him, saying, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of Liam’s life. All the love he gave us for 41 years has come rushing back with all of you here today to celebrate his life.” The emotion in the room was palpable, underscoring the support from the lacrosse community throughout the week.
“It really represents the love that Liam gave us all,” he added.
Mahr also mentioned hopes for healing in the community during the upcoming Siena-Albany game in March. “Liam touched so many of us, and it was because of this game that he was able to inspire so many of us,” he concluded.
