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Siena University is mourning the loss of Liam Gleason, the head coach of the men's lacrosse team, who passed away on Wednesday (December 3) at Albany Medical Center. Gleason, aged 41, suffered a traumatic brain injury after a fall at his home in Halfmoon on Sunday (November 30). The coach was taken off life support and honored with an "honor walk" before his organs were donated to save others, as reported by USA Lacrosse.
Gleason, a University at Albany graduate, had a significant impact on the lacrosse community. During his seven-year tenure at Siena, he led the Saints to the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) championship and an NCAA tournament berth in 2025, marking their first appearance in 11 years. Siena has consistently reached the conference semifinals for the past four seasons.
Known for his towering 6-foot-5 presence, Gleason was remembered fondly by his players and colleagues. Former Siena star Pratt Reynolds described him as "one of the best coaches" he ever had, emphasizing Gleason's dedication to his players, according to The New York Times. Siena's associate head coach, Tim Cox, praised Gleason's lasting legacy on the program.
Gleason is survived by his wife, Jaclyn, and their three children, Kennedy, Penn, and Tate. A GoFundMe campaign has raised over $400,000 to support his family. Siena University will hold a public funeral service on Saturday (December 6) at 11 a.m. at the UHY Center on campus, inviting the community to pay their respects and celebrate his life.