Men's Lacrosse | 5/26/2026 11:50:00 AM
ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Navy's
Race Ripley (Sr / A / Annapolis, Md.) has been selected to represent the Navy men's lacrosse program as a member of the inaugural class of recipients for the Coach Liam Gleason Humanitarian Award announced by the Intercollegiate Men's Lacrosse Coach Association.
Ripley is one of 77 NCAA Division I men's lacrosse student-athletes, along with Gleason's daughter Kennedy, to receive the honor. Each NCAA Division I men's lacrosse program chose a student-athlete on its team to nominate for the award at the conclusion of the 2026 season. The award honors individuals who exemplify leadership, unwavering support for teammates and staff, outstanding sportsmanship and meaningful community involvement.
"Race has consistently raised the standard for what excellence as a midshipman looks like," said Navy head coach Joe Amplo. "He chases the most challenging obstacles the world can throw at him, consistently operates at an elite level all while pouring into his teammates and other members of this community."
The award was created in January of 2026 by family members, former coaches and friends close to Liam Gleason. Gleason, who served as the head coach of the Siena men's lacrosse program, passed away on Dec. 3, 2025, at the age of 41. Throughout the 2026 season, lacrosse programs across the country honored Gleason for the impact he made on and off the field.
"Being a light in the world means spreading kindness, love, and positivity to those around you – helping dispel darkness and negativity," Sue Gleason said in a press release announcing the award recipients. "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."
Ripley, a three-year letter winner for the Mids, played in 35 contests during his career, including starting 6 of the 11 games in which he appeared his senior season. He answered the call for Navy this season when injuries began to pile up and closed out the year with 14 points on 8 goals and 6 assists. Ripley graduated on May 22 with a degree in quantitative economics and was commisioned an Ensign in the United States Navy.
### Go Navy ###
