Spirit of Tewaaraton
The Spirit of Tewaaraton is awarded to an individual who embodies the timeless values of courage and teamwork, and has made significant contributions to the sport of lacrosse.
“The Spirit and Legends Awards are vital parts of our program: honoring the history and heritage of lacrosse is central to the mission of the Tewaaraton Foundation,” said Andy Phillips, President of the Tewaaraton Foundation.
2026 Honoree
Jack Emmer
Army, Team USA, Cortland, Washington & Lee
One of the most respected coaches in lacrosse history, Jack Emmer built a career defined by leadership, innovation, and sustained excellence. Over the course of his career, he guided his programs to 16 NCAA Tournament appearances and retired as the NCAA’s all-time winningest coach with 326 career victories.
Emmer is one of only two coaches in lacrosse history to lead three different programs—Cortland, Washington & Lee, and Army—to NCAA semifinal appearances, reflecting his rare ability to build winning programs at multiple levels of the game. He also coached Team USA to the 2002 gold medal in the world championships.
Previous Recipients
2025
Paul and Mike Rabil
2022
Bill Belichick
2017
George Boiardi
2014
Brendan Looney
2010
Dick Edell
2003
Diane M. Geppi-Aikens
2024
Chris Sailer
2019
Ethel “Feffie” Barnhill
2016
Tina Sloan Green
2013
Bob Scott
2009
Roy D. Simmons, Jr.
2003
A.B. “Buzzy” Krongard
2023
Alfred Jacques
2018
Welles Crowther
2015
Chief Oren Lyons
2012
Richie Moran
2005
Sid Jamieson