Jack Speidell, a junior captain on the Harvard men’s lacrosse team, has been named a recipient of the inaugural Coach Liam Gleason Humanitarian Award, according to a May 20 announcement. Speidell is among 77 NCAA Division I lacrosse student-athletes honored in the award’s first class, alongside Kennedy Gleason, daughter of the late Siena Men’s Lacrosse Head Coach Liam Gleason.
The award recognizes student-athletes who show leadership and commitment to their communities. Speidell has played an active role in Harvard’s philanthropic activities and regularly engages with young fans and community members around Boston.
Gerry Byrne, Frisbie Family Coach for Harvard Men’s Lacrosse, said: “Jack [Speidell] has been a tireless and passionate leader fronting our community engagement initiatives with Team Impact and Harlem Lacrosse. He brings empathy, curiosity and a passion to connect with young people to make them feel included and heard. Whether it is signing an autograph post-game, visiting a hospital or kneeling down to meet a new friend where they are, he makes them feel special whether they are together for two minutes or two hours.”
The Liam Gleason Humanitarian Award was established in January 2026 by family members, former coaches, and friends close to Liam Gleason. It honors recipients who exemplify leadership qualities such as unwavering support for teammates and staff, outstanding sportsmanship, and meaningful involvement in their communities.
Each NCAA Division I Men’s Lacrosse Program selected one student-athlete from their roster for this honor at the end of the 2026 season. The selection process involved votes from players, coaches, and staff; it is given to individuals whom teammates most aspire to emulate.
Sue Gleason reflected on her husband’s legacy: “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.”
