Emotional Tribute from a Young Daughter
At a heartfelt memorial service, the nine-year-old daughter of Liam Gleason, a dedicated lacrosse coach who tragically passed away after suffering a brain injury, delivered an emotional tribute to her father. The event was attended by family members, players, and loved ones, highlighting the profound impact he had on many lives.
Gleason, a 41-year-old married father of three, lost his life outside Albany after a fall at his home that resulted in a traumatic brain injury. His passing has left a deep void in the lives of those who knew him, especially within the lacrosse community.
The memorial took place at Siena school’s Loudonville campus, where a large crowd gathered to honor Gleason’s memory. Among the attendees was his wife, Jaclyn, a former college soccer player, as well as their sons Penn and Tate, and their daughter Kennedy.
Kennedy, who spoke at the ceremony, expressed her desire to honor her father’s legacy by excelling in the sport he loved. She shared her goal of becoming one of the best lacrosse players and securing a scholarship for the sport. Her heartfelt words brought a smile to her mother’s face and were met with enthusiastic applause from the audience.
Gleason’s lacrosse players, who wore T-shirts with ‘Liam Strong’ on them, placed a floral tribute on the altar, symbolizing their respect and admiration for their coach.
A standout lacrosse player during his time at nearby Albany, Gleason began his coaching career as an assistant at Siena in 2008. He later returned to his alma mater for his first coaching job in 2010 and served as the head coach since 2018. His dedication to the sport and his team was evident throughout his career.
Albany lacrosse coach and Gleason’s mentor, Scott Maar, also addressed the gathering. He carried a lacrosse stick to the podium, emphasizing the deep connection between him and Gleason.
Maar shared his gratitude for being part of Gleason’s life and expressed how overwhelming it was to see the outpouring of love from the lacrosse community. He highlighted the lasting impact Gleason had on everyone around him, stating that the love he gave over the years was returning in abundance.
Fundraising Efforts for the Family
In the wake of Gleason’s passing, a fundraising effort was initiated to support his family’s financial needs and cover medical expenses. The campaign has already raised more than $500,000, reflecting the strong support from the community.
The GoFundMe page described Gleason as the best father, husband, brother, son, brother-in-law, uncle, coach, and friend. It emphasized the immense love and generosity he showed to those around him, noting that his heart was as big as his 6’5 frame.
Community Support and Tributes
The lacrosse community has come together in a remarkable way to support Gleason’s family. Their collective efforts have been a source of comfort and strength during this difficult time.
The tributes and support from the community highlight the deep bonds formed through sports and the lasting impact of individuals like Gleason. His legacy continues to inspire those who knew him, and his memory will be cherished by many.
The heartwarming support from the football community, although not directly mentioned in the original text, reflects a similar spirit of solidarity and compassion in times of tragedy. This kind of support is crucial for families navigating the challenges of loss and grief.
As the community rallies around the Gleason family, it serves as a reminder of the power of unity and the importance of remembering those who have made a significant difference in our lives.