Brent Riley’s story is one of dedication, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the game of lacrosse. As the 2018 recipient of the Service to the Game Award, Riley represents the spirit of giving back — not only through personal achievement, but through decades of service that helped shape lacrosse across Upstate New York and beyond.

A Lifetime of Service to the Game of Lacrosse

Early Life, Education, and Entrepreneurship

Riley grew up in Homer, New York, and graduated from Homer High School in 1977. His creative and entrepreneurial path began shortly thereafter when he earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in Graphic Design from Mohawk Valley Community College in 1979. He then transferred to Rochester Institute of Technology, graduating in 1982 with a Bachelor of Science in Printing Management.

In 1984, Riley returned to Central New York and founded Graph-Tex Sportswear and Design. What began as a small business grew into a lasting presence in Cortland, New York, where Graph-Tex continues to operate today. Through Graph-Tex, Riley has supported countless teams, leagues, and events, blending his professional skills with his passion for athletics and community.

A Player’s Journey Through the Game

Riley discovered lacrosse during its early days at Homer High School, where the sport was introduced in 1976. He quickly embraced the game and earned the honor of team captain during his senior season in 1977.

He continued his playing career at RIT, where he competed as a midfielder under Coach Ray Rostan on the 1980 and 1981 teams. That collegiate experience marked the beginning of a lifelong connection to lacrosse that extended far beyond the college years.

From 1982 through 2015, Riley played on numerous club and travel teams, including Steamboat Springs Lacrosse Club, Rochester Lacrosse Club, Reebok Lacrosse Club, and Sailin’ Shoe Lacrosse Club. His long-standing contributions to the sport were recognized in 2016 when he was inducted as a Lake Placid Legend, an honor reserved for those who leave a lasting mark on the lacrosse community.

Leadership and Service Beyond the Field

Riley’s impact on lacrosse reaches far beyond his playing career. He served as a team leader and representative to the United States Club Lacrosse Association (USCLA), helping re-establish national club lacrosse in the Upstate region during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

He also worked closely with the founders of the Brine Upstate Lacrosse League (ULA), helping to build lacrosse as a grassroots platform focused on the positive development of young athletes. Through coaching, mentoring, sponsorship, and advocacy, Riley played a vital role in expanding access to the game and reinforcing its core values of teamwork, discipline, and respect.

Through Graph-Tex, Riley continues to coach, support, and sponsor teams and events for players of all ages, ensuring that lacrosse remains accessible and community-driven.

Family, Community, and Legacy

Brent Riley lives in the Homer/Cortland area with his wife, Mollie, where family and lacrosse remain central to daily life. His daughter, Martha Nye, her husband CJ, and their daughter Lola, along with sons Beau (RIT) and Dean (SUNY Cortland), all share in the values of education, sport, and community that Riley has championed for decades.

Riley’s legacy is not measured solely by awards or accolades, but by the countless athletes, coaches, and families whose lives have been positively shaped by his commitment to the game. The 2018 Service to the Game Award stands as a testament to a lifetime spent building something bigger than himself — a thriving lacrosse community rooted in opportunity, mentorship, and passion.