On Sunday, November 9, 2025, the rich legacy of lacrosse in Upstate New York will be celebrated in grand fashion as the Upstate Lacrosse Foundation hosts its 26th Hall of Fame Induction Celebration at Drumlins Country Club in Syracuse.

The event begins with cocktails at 1:00 p.m., followed by dinner at 2:00 p.m., and culminates with the induction ceremony at 3:00 p.m. The day promises to be an unforgettable celebration of tradition, excellence, and community spirit.

The Class of 2025 represents a cross-section of the sport’s most influential figures from the region — players, coaches, and leaders whose contributions have shaped lacrosse both on and off the field.

Among the individual inductees are:

Joe Alberici, respected coach and leader at West Point.

Freeman Bucktooth is renowned for his impact on Native American lacrosse and his work with youth.

Mark “Redman” Burnam, known for his powerful playing style and passion for growing the game.

Meghan Burnett and Kristen Taylor, whose playing and coaching achievements inspired generations of female athletes.

Peter Hyde has excelled as a women’s high school and collegiate official for 27 years, while serving as Chair of CNYBWLO and multiple committees with USA Lacrosse. 

Nancy Vecchio was an integral part of Upstate Lacrosse for 25 years at her respective schools, but also as a founder of the Different Road Patriots Club Lacrosse organization.

Rick Gilbert was a 4x All-American at Hobart (‘74), and his 444 career points in 68 games(157g-287a)is still a NCAA Div II record fifty-one years after graduation.

Patrick Donahue, 3x NYS HS champion, 4-year starter at Syracuse, played professionally for the Syracuse Spirit (American Lacrosse League) and the Syracuse Smash (National Lacrosse League). Baldwinsville Varsity Assistant Coach for 25 years.

Rachel Lasda, NYS HS Champion, 4-year player at Villanova (2011), has been a successful HS coach in NJ and coached and played internationally with the Latvian National Lacrosse team.

David Schneid, NYS HS Champion and 3-sport athlete, was a 4-year player at Cornell (1994).

Also being honored are two legendary teams:

The 1985 West Genesee High School Boys Team cemented its place in state history with dominant play and championship success.

The 2007–08 West Genesee High School Girls Team, a squad that exemplified teamwork, determination, and excellence.

In addition, James Case will receive the Alfie Jacques Contributor Award, a distinction named in memory of the legendary stick maker and ambassador of the game. Case’s unwavering support and commitment to lacrosse behind the scenes have helped grow the sport at every level.

“This event is more than an induction — it’s a celebration of what makes Upstate lacrosse so special,” said a spokesperson for the Foundation. “These individuals and teams embody the values of integrity, leadership, and legacy that continue to fuel our lacrosse community.”

As the region’s lacrosse family gathers under one roof, the evening will serve as both a reunion and a recognition of greatness. It’s a chance to honor the past, inspire the future, and celebrate the shared love of the Creator’s Game.

The Sports Outfit is proud to partner with The Upstate Lacrosse Foundation, supporting our mission to celebrate and promote the rich lacrosse history of Central New York and the Southern Tier. Visit our store today!

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Help support the Upstate Lacrosse Foundation with a generous donation in honor of the great game of Lacrosse, as we celebrate its origins and rich history in Upstate New York! All donations support the Upstate Lacrosse Foundation and help us to continue our work in honor of the game.

The Upstate Lacrosse Foundation’s tax id number is EIN 83-2192663.