Binghamton men's lacrosse player Mason Shenk has been awarded the inaugural Coach Liam Gleason Humanitarian Award by the Intercollegiate Men's Lacrosse Coaches Association (IMLCA). This award honors 77 NCAA Division I players for their leadership, support for teammates, sportsmanship, and community involvement. Shenk, who called the recognition an “incredible blessing,” exemplifies the selflessness and character of the late Coach Liam Gleason, who passed away in 2025. Throughout his career, Shenk actively engaged in community service and excelled academically, maintaining high standards both on and off the field.

By the Numbers
  • Mason Shenk participated in 12 games in the 2026 season, achieving career highs with 11 ground balls and 5 caused turnovers.
  • Shenk graduated with a bachelor's degree in finance and maintained a 4.0 GPA during the spring semester of 2024.
Yes, But

While Shenk's recognition highlights individual achievement, it comes at a time when the lacrosse community continues to mourn the loss of Coach Liam Gleason. The impact of Gleason's coaching and compassion remains a significant part of his legacy.

State of Play
  • The inaugural Coach Liam Gleason Humanitarian Award was created to honor the legacy of a coach deeply respected within the lacrosse community.
  • Lacrosse programs across the country are actively recognizing Gleason's contributions, promoting a culture of compassion and kindness in his memory.
What's Next

The ongoing recognition of the Coach Liam Gleason Humanitarian Award is expected to inspire future student-athletes to embody the values of leadership and community service, creating a lasting impact on the sport.

Bottom Line

The inaugural Coach Liam Gleason Humanitarian Award not only honors Mason Shenk’s achievements but also symbolizes the enduring influence of Coach Gleason, encouraging future athletes to prioritize character and community involvement above personal accolades.