University of Massachusets Athletics

Blaise New Named To Inaugural Class For Liam Gleason Humanitarian Award
May 20, 2026 | Men's Lacrosse
LOUDONVILLE, N.Y. – University of Massachusetts men's lacrosse junior captain was among 77 NCAA Division I Men's Lacrosse Student Athletes named to the inaugural class for the Coach Liam Gleason Humanitarian Award.
The Liam Gleason Humanitarian Award, established in January 2026 by family members, former coaches, and friends close to Liam, honors its inaugural group of recipients exemplifying leadership, unwavering support for teammates and staff, outstanding sportsmanship, and meaningful community involvement.
Each NCAA Division I Men's Lacrosse program selected a student-athlete to receive the Liam Gleason Humanitarian Award at the conclusion of the 2026 season. Voted on by players, coaches, and staff, this honor is awarded to the individual on the roster whose teammates most aspire to emulate.
"We feel fortunate to be a part of something like this and feel there is no one more deserving than Blaise New on our roster," said UMass head coach Kyle Smith.
New appeared in three games this spring before missing the remainder of the season due to injury but his leadership helped UMass to double-digit wins for the first time since 2019. Thus far in his career the Bedford, New York, native has appeared in 32 games, logging seven points (2g, 5a), 49 ground balls and 21 caused turnovers.
The Liam Gleason Humanitarian Award, established in January 2026 by family members, former coaches, and friends close to Liam, honors its inaugural group of recipients exemplifying leadership, unwavering support for teammates and staff, outstanding sportsmanship, and meaningful community involvement.
Each NCAA Division I Men's Lacrosse program selected a student-athlete to receive the Liam Gleason Humanitarian Award at the conclusion of the 2026 season. Voted on by players, coaches, and staff, this honor is awarded to the individual on the roster whose teammates most aspire to emulate.
"We feel fortunate to be a part of something like this and feel there is no one more deserving than Blaise New on our roster," said UMass head coach Kyle Smith.
New appeared in three games this spring before missing the remainder of the season due to injury but his leadership helped UMass to double-digit wins for the first time since 2019. Thus far in his career the Bedford, New York, native has appeared in 32 games, logging seven points (2g, 5a), 49 ground balls and 21 caused turnovers.
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