Syracuse junior goalie Michael Ippoliti has been selected to the inaugural class for the Coach Liam Gleason Humanitarian Award, according to a May 20 announcement. The award recognizes 77 NCAA Division I student-athletes and Kennedy Gleason, the daughter of Coach Liam Gleason.
The Coach Liam Gleason Humanitarian Award was established in January by family members, former coaches, and friends close to Coach Gleason. It honors leadership, unwavering support for teammates and staff, outstanding sportsmanship, and meaningful community involvement.
Ippoliti is set to compete with his Syracuse teammates in the NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championship Weekend. The Orange will face Notre Dame on Saturday at Scott Stadium in Charlottesville, Virginia. This season, Ippoliti has appeared in two games with a goals-against average of 3.06 and a .778 save percentage.
“Michael Ippoliti provides an unwavering support to teammates and staff alike,” said Syracuse assistant coach Nick Acquaviva. “He’s always ready with a helping hand, thoughtful advice, or a word of encouragement. Whether it’s staying late to help a struggling teammate improve their skills, assisting coaching staff with logistics, or simply being a reliable listener during difficult times, his supportive nature fosters a culture of trust, respect, and collective growth.”
Each NCAA Division I Men’s Lacrosse program selected one student-athlete from their team for this recognition at the end of the season. The award is voted on by players, coaches, and staff as recognition for individuals whose teammates most aspire to emulate.
Coach Liam Gleason served as Siena’s men’s lacrosse coach until his passing on December 3 last year. He was named both Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) and Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) Coach of the Year in 2025 after leading Siena to its fourth MAAC Tournament Championship.
“Being a light in the world means spreading kindness, love, and positivity to those around you – helping dispel darkness and negativity. 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,” said Sue Gleason.
