13 for 13

Many people have favorite numbers. Mine has always been Number 7, it’s the one that does the trick for me. Our son Gordon, though, loved Number 13. He wore it proudly in High School and at College, and it became part of who he was. Gordon used to call himself a nerd, but to us he was something more, an intellectual soul who thought deeply about everything. His choice of 13 wasn’t random; it was intentional, like so much of what he did.

Thirteen is a paradox wrapped in a number. For centuries, it has carried the weight of fear and superstition, hotels skip the 13th floor, airlines avoid row 13, and Friday the 13th has become shorthand for bad luck. Yet, thirteen is also a number of transformation. It comes just after twelve, the number so many cultures consider “complete”: twelve months, twelve zodiac signs, twelve disciples. Thirteen steps beyond completeness and into possibility.

The moon circles the Earth about 13 times each year, tying the number to rhythms of life itself. And as a prime number, 13 remains indivisible, a reminder that some truths cannot be broken down further.  Thirteen unsettles because it pushes us out of comfort and into the unknown. To embrace thirteen is to embrace change itself.

That’s who Gordon was, someone who embraced the unknown, who thought deeply, who lived fully. His High School Jersey, Number 13, now hangs proudly in my office beside my own Number 7 from my College Football and Lacrosse days. They remind me daily of connection, legacy, and love.

Through the Gordon Corsetti, Mental Agility Foundation, we carry his spirit forward by supporting Mental Health Awareness and Suicide Prevention. This year, our Foundation is holding a fundraiser with the goal of raising $13,000 by the end of the year (13 for 13). Every gift, no matter the size, helps us continue this essential work, bringing awareness, starting conversations, and reaching those who need it most.

Recently, Mary Jo and I traveled to Casper, Wyoming at the invitation of a dear friend and mental health professional. The event centered on Mental Health Awareness, Suicide Prevention and of course, lacrosse was part of it too. We introduced more than 250 kids to the game Gordon loved, combining sport with the vital message that mental health matters.

We hope you’ll join us in honoring Gordon’s legacy, in embracing the spirit of Number 13, and in helping us reach our goal. With your support, we can continue to bring light, hope, and awareness where it’s needed most.

Please read the latest blog (A Journey of Healing, Lacrosse, and Connection) from Gordon's Website below:

We are asking everyone if they can to donate $13 to Gordon's Mental Agility Foundation to Honor is Legacy and his love for number 13.  

With your kindness and generosity over the past two and a half years, you have helped us support the following organizations. We are deeply grateful for the love, encouragement, and commitment you’ve shown along the way.

• Georgia Lacrosse Officials Association

• Will to Live Foundation - Life Teammates

• Live For Jamie - Team 8

• Summit Counseling Center

• Elite Lineman Training Institute

• Fight Against Suicide

• No Let-Up Foundation

• Project Kenny

• Casper Boys and Girls Club

• Asheville Empire - Hurricane Relief efforts 

Thank you for your continued support - Love Mary Jo and Coach Lou

For those of you that need help please see the resources below:

Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for help. In an emergency, please call 911.

If you or someone you know is seeking help for mental health concerns, visit the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) website, or call 1-800-950-NAMI(6264).

For confidential treatment referrals, visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website, or call the National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP(4357).

A Journey of Healing, Lacrosse, and Connection

This August, Mary Jo, our three-legged Staffordshire Blakely, and I set out on an unforgettable journey from Atlanta, Georgia to Casper, Wyoming. It wasn’t just about getting from one place to another, it was about experiencing the country mile by mile, and ultimately, about the mission that awaited us at the end of the road.

We chose to slow down and savor the trip. In St. Louis, we stood beneath the soaring Gateway Arch, that symbol of westward exploration and limitless possibility. Later, in North Platte, Nebraska, we paused to honor the memory of Wild Bill Cody, whose spirit of adventure still lingers in the plains. These stops weren’t just sightseeing; they were reminders that America’s story is best told when you stop long enough to listen.

As a family, we’ve traveled west many times before, to the Grand Canyon, Zion, Sun Valley, and more, but always by plane. This time, driving the open highways gave us something new. The landscapes unfolded slowly, allowing us to feel the vastness of the country in a way you can’t from 30,000 feet up. It’s an experience I believe everyone should take in at least once.

Our final destination was Casper, Wyoming, where on August 8th and 9th we hosted a lacrosse clinic for three different age groups, followed by a Flex 6 Lacrosse Tournament for the Central Wyoming Boys & Girls Clubs and the wider community. Yet what drew us there wasn’t just sport, it was the deeper purpose of the inaugural LaCROSSe Out Violence & Suicide weekend, a collaboration between USA Lacrosse, Central Wyoming Counseling Center, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming, PROSPER Together, Natrona County Health Department, Natrona Collective Health Trust, and so many others who believe in the power of community and mental health awareness.

Nearly 250 young people gathered over those two days at the Casper Soccer Complex, learning a new game, building friendships, and stepping into conversations that matter: about mental health, resilience, and suicide prevention. As I reminded the participants, lacrosse is called the “Medicine Game” in Native traditions, and its healing power was felt in every drill, every laugh, and every honest conversation.

This event had been in the works since April, when my good friend Jim Cowser (Central Wyoming Counseling Center), who had worked with Gordon over the years on mental health writings, invited me to come to Casper. Jim asked me to speak about mental health and suicide prevention, fully aware of the lasting impact Gordon had on so many. From that moment, the vision began to grow. Jim’s colleague Kendall Hickman brought us together week after week, carefully organizing alongside Ashley Bright (CEO, Central Wyoming Boys & Girls Clubs), DC Martinez (Athletic Director, CWBG), Anna Kinder (Executive Director, Natrona County Health Department), Dr. Kent Corso from PROSPER Together, Carol Salveson (Project Kenny) and my colleague and friend Lyn Porterfield, Regional Director of USA Lacrosse. Each person poured themselves into the weekend, shaping it into something that became larger than we could have imagined.

Along the way, there were moments of reunion and new friendship. I got to catch up with one of my former players, Carter Boicourt, who is now building a career in Casper and eager to help establish a local lacrosse league. I also had the unexpected joy of meeting Mike and Heather McKenna of Atlas Flight School, who supported Erin Switzer’s parachute entrance. Over dinner the night before, Mike had us all laughing with his sharp wit, and we talked through the logistics of how Erin would safely land his jump, a fascinating glimpse into the teamwork and precision behind the spectacle.

And what a spectacle it was. On Saturday, Erin — a former U.S. Marine Corps Reconnaissance operator, elite BORTAC agent, and now a powerful voice for resilience — parachuted onto the field before delivering a keynote that struck the youth to their core. He reminded them that strength isn’t just about toughness, but also about vulnerability, and that asking for help is never weakness.

Fourteen local organizations set up booths, families shared meals from food trucks, kids ran across fields with their new lacrosse sticks, and for a few days, Casper felt alive with hope, healing, and connection.

As I shared with the crowd that weekend: “This is the first of many events to grow the game of lacrosse in Wyoming. But more importantly, it helps young people and their parents understand that there are many resources to help them with mental health challenges.”

I said several things to the audience that day and one was one of my favorite quotes by Charles Schultz who wrote Penuts “Be Yourself—Everyone Else is Taken”

Embrace who you are, your quirks, your struggles, your gifts.

Mental wellness starts with authenticity. Pretending to be someone you're not is exhausting—and isolating.

We need to create space for people to be real, to show up as themselves without fear of shame.

On the drive back, Mary Jo and I (and yes, Blakely too) took a detour to see Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Monument — both breathtaking in their scale and power. It felt fitting to end the journey there, reflecting on vision, resilience, and the pursuit of something greater than oneself.

The road from Atlanta to Casper was long, but every mile mattered. This trip reminded me that whether in small towns or big cities, sports and community can come together to change lives. Lacrosse was the reason we came, but healing and connection were what we found.

So has everyone knows we met a new Crew while on our journey and using Gordon’s motto “Take Care of Your Crew” because that is what we did except for Blakely who was carted all over the place and spoiled rotten :)

If you’d like to learn more about the incredible organizations we worked alongside, I encourage you to explore the following:

• Central Wyoming Counseling Center

• Casper-Natrona County Health Department

• PROSPER Together

• Salvation Army Casper Corps

• Atlas Flight School

• https://projectkenny.org/meet-the-team/

  For those of you that need help please see the resources below:

  Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for help. In an emergency, please call 911.

  If you or someone you know is seeking help for mental health concerns, visit the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) website, or call 1-800-950-NAMI(6264).

  For confidential treatment referrals, visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website, or call the National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP(4357).

  Please consider donating to the Gordon J. Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation to help us keep Gordon’s legacy alive.

  Mental Agility Donation

One More Catch!

One More Catch

If I could have one more moment with my son, just one more glimpse into the boundless heart and sharp mind of Gordon James Corsetti, it would be for one more catch. Not a ceremony, not a conversation even, just a simple, sacred toss of a lacrosse ball between father and son.

Because that’s where it all began. That’s where we connected first: in the front yard, in the backyard, at fields where the grass stuck to our cleats and the sun cast long shadows at dusk. Gordon with his stick always taped just right, shirt tucked, glasses sliding down his nose. Me, the coach and the father, watching the boy who played not for the trophies, but for the love of the game, and later, for the love of the rules that shaped it.

He was only 34 when he passed away on December 2, 2022, after a courageous, two-decade battle with depression. Gordon didn’t hide from what he was going through. He never did. He met mental illness head-on, not just for himself, but for others. He used his voice,his writing, his talks, his business, Mental Agility, to give structure to the chaos that so many feel but can’t explain. He shared his pain so others might feel less alone in theirs.

But before he became a mentor, a mental health advocate, and a nationally respected official, Gordon was just my son. The boy who broke out of his crib to see his baby sister. The young man who read constantly, who couldn’t lie if his life depended on it. Who wore his heart and his shirt tucked in, always.

He excelled at lacrosse, of course. A gifted defenseman at Pace Academy and Presbyterian College. But where many find glory in scoring, Gordon found peace in structure, in fairness, in the art of officiating. He didn’t just become a good referee. He became the best. He wrote Advanced Rules: Improving Your Lacrosse Officiating, and he brought integrity and empathy to every game he called. His impact on the officiating community was, and remains, immeasurable.

Still, Gordon was never confined by one role or one title. He mastered martial arts, jumped from airplanes, worked in e-learning, and even became a electrical lineman, where the man who once underwent electro-convulsive therapy now helped restore power with a smile. He spoke to crews about vulnerability and mental strength with honesty that earned him more than respect. It earned him connection.

Even now, Gordon continues to give. As an organ donor, his physical life extends into the lives of more than 80 people. His words continue to be read. His lessons continue to be taught. His memory continues to inspire.

But I would give anything for just one more catch. To toss that ball one more time, to hear him laugh as it hit the ground, to talk about nothing and everything. No expectations. Just a moment. Just the rhythm of pass and receive, the simplicity of being together.

I know Gordon would tell me not to dwell on the "why" but to focus on the "what now." To build, to help, to be better for others. So we will. Through the Gordon Corsetti Mental Agility Fund, we will carry forward his mission: to educate, to support, to offer hope to those who feel trapped in darkness.

But still, I hold on to that hope, that memory, that dream, of one more catch.

Because in that quiet, familiar moment, there is love. There is healing. There is Gordon.

And he is still with us.

For those of you that need help please see the resources below:

Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for help. In an emergency, please call 911.

If you or someone you know is seeking help for mental health concerns, visit the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) website, or call 1-800-950-NAMI(6264).

For confidential treatment referrals, visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website, or call the National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP(4357).

Please consider donating to the Gordon J. Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation to help us keep Gordon’s legacy alive.

Mental Agility Donation

The Emotional Journey of Fatherhood: A Tribute

The Emotional Journey of Fatherhood: A Tribute

March 3rd, 1988, marked a profound turning point in my life the day I became a father. It was a moment filled with anticipation mixed with fear, as my incredible partner, Mary Jo (MJ), faced the daunting reality of an emergency C-section to bring our first son, Gordon James Corsetti, into the world. As we stood at Robert Wood Johnson Hospital, a facility known for cradling dreams of many families in the East Brunswick, New Jersey community, we held our breaths, fearing the unknown.

When the time finally came to see my beautiful wife and our new bundle of joy, I was met with the sight of dozens of newborns in the maternity ward. With my heart pounding, I rushed to MJ's side, her figure basking under the soft glow of a covered fluorescent light that illuminated the room like a halo. Still weary from the surgery, her first words to me were, “I gave you a son.” In that moment, I knew without a doubt we had been blessed by a God.

Fast forward to April 10th, 1990, when our family grew with the addition of our little girl, Caitlin Leigh Corsetti. Each moment we spent together was filled with laughter, love, and a fair share of challenges, culminating in beautiful memories that we continue to cherish. Christenings, Communions, Birthdays, holidays, weddings, and countless family vacations etched these precious seconds into my heart, reminding me of the weight of our shared love.

Yet, the journey of fatherhood is not without heartache. It's an unfathomable pain when one of your children leaves this earth before you. The grief is raw and relentless, leaving a void that is impossible to fill. Mary Jo and Caitlin navigate their own paths through sorrow, each handling the weight of loss in their unique ways, reminding me that grief is personal and can often be a solitary journey. In these dark, painful times, my faith has been a lifeline, grounding me in the belief that there is a divine plan amidst the anguish.

In my quiet moments, especially during my morning walks by the river with our dogs Blanche and Izzy, I find solace in speaking with Gordon. I connect with him, pouring out my heart, expressing gratitude for the time we shared. I yearn to hold him again, to feel his embrace, knowing that for now, our conversations will have to echo in my thoughts and tears.

Looking back, the days my children came into this world stand as the two brightest moments of my life second only to marrying my first wife, Mary Jo (a cherished inside joke). As we approach Father's Day, I am reminded of the profound importance of fatherhood. It is a day to celebrate not just our children, but the role that each of us plays as fathers and guiding lights in their lives.

I hope I have instilled in Gordon and Caitlin the values they need to thrive, and while there are inevitably moments when I felt I could have done better, seeing them flourish as well-adjusted adults fills my heart with pride…despite Caitlin's inexplicable fear of fish, which still puzzles me!

To all the fathers out there: Happy Father's Day! Cherish the time with your family, hold your children close, and tell them you love them every chance you get. These moments are fleeting, and the love we share is a legacy that endures beyond this life.

For those of you that need help please see the resources below:

Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for help. In an emergency, please call 911.

If you or someone you know is seeking help for mental health concerns, visit the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) website, or call 1-800-950-NAMI(6264).

For confidential treatment referrals, visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website, or call the National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP(4357).

Please consider donating to the Gordon J. Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation to help us keep Gordon’s legacy alive.

Mental Agility Donation

Confine Yourself to the Present

Well, the last three months have been a whirlwind—an emotional ride filled with highs and lows, joy and heartache, celebration and reflection.

March and April have always been special months for our family, overflowing with birthdays and memories. March 3rd is Gordon’s birthday—a date that now carries both pain and pride. It’s also shared with his Godmother Debbie, his Grandma Barbara, and Grandpa Big Al. His fiancée, Lisa, even shares a birthday with me. April follows with the birthdays of all our nieces and his little sister, Caitlin. These moments, once so ordinary, now feel sacred.

This spring, we honored Gordon in a way that felt worthy of him. We held the Gordon James Corsetti Memorial Lacrosse Tournament, raising over $20,000 in his name. It was powerful, healing, and filled with community. Adding to that, Gordon was inducted into the Georgia Lacrosse Hall of Fame, Class of 2024. His legacy continues to shine, and I couldn’t be prouder.

On the field, my own lacrosse team saw an up-and-down season end in a tough playoff loss. And after six years together, my trusted Defensive Coordinator is moving on to a new opportunity. Coaching is filled with transitions, but that one will sting.

At home, there was light and accomplishment too. Caitlin was promoted at work after pouring herself into her goals with grace and persistence. Her husband Nick is pursuing his Master’s at Georgetown University. We celebrated Easter, Mother’s Day, and our Anniversary surrounded by love—with Caitlin, Nick, his Mom & Dad, and Aunt Kerri by our side.

This past weekend, we closed our lacrosse season with our team banquet—a time for heartfelt thanks to parents, coaches, and the volunteers who pour so much into these young athletes. I’ve done dozens of these events over the years, but they never get easier. They're filled with emotion: joy for the seniors whose time has come, pride for the first-time lettermen and award winners, and deep admiration for the kids who grew into themselves one practice, one game at a time.

Working with young people is a gift. You see their potential before they do. And if you're lucky, you get to play a small part in shaping the kind of character they’ll pass on to others.

Gordon believed in the teachings of Marcus Aurelius—he found strength and peace in Stoic philosophy. Aurelius wrote of confined attention to the present, of living with virtue, and of not being consumed by things like birthdays or celebrations, but by how we live and who we become. That mindset helped Gordon find purpose and clarity. I think of it often.

In my office sits a sign—simple but powerful—given to Gordon by his dear friend and mentor Kevin Forester. I remember when Kevin gave it to him at a Navy football game we attended together, and the joy it brought to Gordon’s face. That sign now hangs on my wall, surrounded by photos, awards, and keepsakes that carry the weight and wonder of Gordon’s life. (PS if you need a cool College Sign, Pro Team or any sign really let me know and I will connect you with Kevin)

Some days I wonder what will happen to all of these things when I’m gone. But then I hear Gordon whisper back with Aurelius’ quiet wisdom:
"Confine yourself to the present."

And so, I try.

Grateful for the past. Anchored in the now.

Forever honoring my son.

For those of you that need help please see the resources below:

Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for help. In an emergency, please call 911.

If you or someone you know is seeking help for mental health concerns, visit the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) website, or call 1-800-950-NAMI(6264).

For confidential treatment referrals, visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website, or call the National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP(4357).

Please consider donating to the Gordon J. Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation to help us keep Gordon’s legacy alive.

Mental Agility Donation

Take Care of Your Crew Auction

Hello everyone,

This weekend March 14 and 15 we will be hosting the 2nd Annual Gordon J. Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation Lacrosse Tournament at Fellowship Christian School.

We will be raising money for Mental Health Awareness and Suicide Prevention.

Below is the link for the Silent Auction with some awesome auction items - DON”T MISS OUT!

https://givebutter.com/c/xcEfgR/auction

Special Thanks to all of our Sponsors

Coleman Partners LLC

Davis Family

Statham Family

Shaun and Kevin Lux

Persium Group

Second Slide

TE Certified

Emily Bahney - WealthWise Marketing

Atlanta Specialized Care

Bennett Thrasher LLP

Tampa Bay Lacrosse Officials

How to see everyone out there for some Great Lacrosse Action!

See ya on the Field…Coach Lou

Happy Birthday Gordon!

As hard as some days are to even push forward, today is a special day—March 3rd, 1988, the day I became a father. A day that changed my life forever.

I miss my son more than words can express. The ache of his absence is something I carry with me every single day, and my heart especially breaks for MJ and Caitlin and Gordon’s Fiance Lisa. While others feel the sadness of losing someone, losing a child before you leave this earth is just different. There are no easy words, no perfect way to describe the weight of this loss. While I thought about staying silent today, about not writing anything on Gordon’s birthday, the truth is—it’s just too painful.

People say time heals, but for me, the sorrow remains. Some days are filled with busyness, distractions that offer a brief reprieve. Other days, there is stillness, quiet moments where the grief settles in like a shadow that never leaves.

But today, amidst the pain, I choose to honor my son. To remember his laughter, his kindness, and the impact he made in the lives of so many. Today, we celebrate Gordon’s birthday with love, with family, and with the unshakable truth that he will always be with us.

Today, on Gordon’s birthday, I don’t dwell in the dark—we shine a light. A light of hope, resilience, and inspiration for those who are struggling, for those who feel alone, and for those who need to hear that their story is far from over.

Gordon dedicated his life to lifting others up, both on and off the lacrosse field. As a player, coach, official, and mental health advocate, he wasn’t just passionate about the game—he was passionate about the people in it. He understood that strength isn’t just about physical ability, but also about mental agility, emotional courage, and the willingness to keep going even in the toughest of times.

Through his work, his words, and his unwavering commitment to mental health awareness and suicide prevention, Gordon created a legacy that continues to impact lives. His honesty in sharing his own struggles made it possible for others to seek help, to feel understood, and to know that they are never alone.

So today, we celebrate his life, his mission, and his light—and we carry that light forward. If you or someone you love is struggling, know that your story matters, your life has purpose, and you are loved more than you know.

Gordon, your legacy lives on in every conversation about mental health, in every person who reaches out for help, and in every life saved because of the work you started.

Happy Birthday, Gordon. I miss you, I love you, and I will carry you with me always.

Your light will never fade.

I Love You...Dad XOX

Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for help. In an emergency, please call 911.

If you or someone you know is seeking help for mental health concerns, visit the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) website, or call 1-800-950-NAMI(6264).

For confidential treatment referrals, visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website, or call the National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP(4357).

Please consider donating to the Gordon J. Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation to help us keep Gordon’s legacy alive.

Mental Agility Donation

Posthumously

Honoring Gordon James Corsetti: A Legacy of Lacrosse and Mental Health Advocacy

Who would have thought that not more than two years ago, I would be writing a blog posthumously about my son, Gordon James Corsetti?

It is with a mixture of immense pride and deep sorrow that I share the news of Gordon’s posthumous induction into the 2025 Georgia Lacrosse Hall of Fame—an honor that stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication to the game of lacrosse and his extraordinary impact on the lives of so many.

A Life Devoted to Lacrosse

From an early age, Gordon's love for lacrosse was undeniable. He excelled not only as a player and coach but also as a visionary in officiating education. His work with USA Lacrosse revolutionized the way officiating was taught, producing educational content that became a cornerstone of training programs worldwide. Remarkably, he started this journey as a teenager, creating resources that reflected his deep understanding of the game and his commitment to its growth.

Gordon’s contributions to lacrosse were not just about the technical aspects of the game. He saw the sport as a community, a family, and he worked tirelessly to ensure that every player, coach, and official had the tools they needed to succeed. His passion, intellect, and ability to teach were unparalleled, and his impact on the sport will be felt for generations.

A Champion for Mental Health

Beyond lacrosse, Gordon was an unwavering advocate for mental health awareness—a role that required immense courage and vulnerability. Having battled depression from a young age, he chose to confront his struggles openly, using his experiences to help others. Through his Mental Agility platform, he provided insights and strategies for managing mental health, always emphasizing that “no feeling is final.”

His advocacy extended beyond words; he took action. One of his most significant accomplishments was helping Ohio pass a law requiring all high school coaches to complete a Mental Health Curriculum, ensuring that future athletes would be better supported both on and off the field. His work broke down stigma, sparked critical conversations, and offered hope to those suffering in silence.

A Lasting Legacy

Gordon’s story is one of strength, compassion, and resilience. Though he left us far too soon when he died by suicide on December 2, 2022, his impact lives on in the countless lives he touched. His legacy is not only written in the rulebooks of lacrosse officiating but also in the hearts of those who found solace and understanding in his advocacy.

As we celebrate his induction into the Georgia Lacrosse Hall of Fame, we are reminded that his influence extends far beyond the game. His dedication to excellence, education, and empathy is something we should all strive to emulate.

Gordon, your presence is deeply missed, but your legacy will never fade. You have left an indelible mark on the world, and we are forever grateful for the light you shared with us.

Rest easy, my son. Your work lives on.

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Special congratulations to the 2025 Georgia Lacrosse Foundation Hall of Fame

Lydia Cassada, Frank Daniels, Maddie Fink, Drew Jackson, Janna Kaufman, Fielding Kidd, Rick Lewis Jr., Koe Losurdo, Arden Pennigton, Sarah Serbinski and Brian Wallace

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Please consider donating to the Gordon J. Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation to help us keep Gordon’s legacy alive.

Mental Agility Donation

A New Season

Kicking Off Lacrosse Season with Goals, Memories, and Good Sportsmanship

As the lacrosse season kicks off on Monday, January 27, I’m reminded that each year brings a fresh opportunity to set goals and chart a path for the first two weeks of the season. This is my time to gather my team and prepare not just for the X’s and O’s but for the journey ahead, both on and off the field.

It’s also a time of year when I fondly remember the hours I spent with my son Gordon, a prolific lacrosse official, discussing the rules, the nuances, and the many quirks of this incredible game. While we enjoyed many different activities together, lacrosse was always the glue—a topic that bonded us, inspired us, and fueled endless conversations.

Now, while I still "talk" to Gordon multiple times a day, the responses I get are...well, let’s just say they’re quieter than I’d prefer. Sometimes, I feel like I’m tossing my thoughts into the abyss. But every so often, I’ll spot something in nature or receive a subtle sign that reminds me Gordon is still right here, keeping an eye on me from the best seat in the house.

Looking back, I’m filled with pride thinking about the foundation we built—quite literally—with Atlanta Youth Lacrosse. For 27 years, Mary Jo, our kids Caitlin and Gordon, and their friends pitched in to create one of the top youth programs in the country. From building benches, shooting cages, and even a Scorers Tower (still standing strong!) to lining fields, setting up goals, coaching, officiating, and keeping scores, we worked to ensure every kid and their family fell in love with lacrosse. It was always about more than the game—it was about creating an unforgettable experience.

Now, as we launch into another season, youth and high school players are sharpening their skills, conditioning, and preparing for what’s ahead. No matter how the season ends—whether your team wins it all or takes a few more losses than planned—the real victory is in the experience. It’s about the memories made with teammates, the encouragement from coaches, and hopefully, the love for the game that keeps kids coming back year after year.

A Friendly Reminder from a Longtime Coach:

Cheer for your team. Celebrate their efforts. And for the love of lacrosse, leave the officials alone. They’re human (yes, even the youth officials), and they deserve respect.

As many of you know, Gordon was a passionate advocate for mental health and a dedicated educator of officials around the world. His legacy reminds us that officials are crucial to the game—and they’re doing their best. So, next time you’re tempted to "offer feedback" from the sidelines, take a breath, focus on the joy of watching your player, and remember that your positive energy makes a bigger difference than you realize.

Here’s to a great season ahead—on the field, in the stands, and in our hearts.

Here is a great video of all the things kids built at our fields - STAR VIDEO

Caitlin (Nick - Caitlin’s husband and a Soccer Coach and soon to be Lacrosse Coach), Mary Jo and Coach Lou

If you would like to Donate to the Gordon J. Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation please click here

Mental Agility Donation

A Year in Review

A Year in Review

First and foremost we would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Holiday season with your families. We hope you stay safe and hope to see as many of you as possible during the year.

A Family’s Anguish: Losing a Child and a Brother
By Lou and Mary Jo Corsetti & Gordon's Sister, Caitlin

There are no words strong enough, no language tender enough to truly convey the pain of losing a child or a brother. It is a loss that leaves you breathless and broken, forever reshaping the path you walk. For us—Lou, Mary Jo, and Caitlin—Gordon was not just a son and brother; he was our light, our laughter, and a source of joy that made life whole. Losing him felt like losing the very heart of our family.

In this journey of grief, putting these words together feels deeply personal, yet deeply necessary. Writing helps us process our thoughts and emotions, and sometimes we do so as a family—my bride Mary Jo, our daughter Caitlin, and myself. It is a small catharsis for us, a way to honor Gordon’s life and the impact he had on everyone around him.

We don’t share this for sympathy or to place any burden on those who care for us. Instead, we want to express how much your presence and kindness mean to us. Whether it’s a simple text, an email, a phone call, or a social media post, every small act of support becomes a point of light that helps guide us through the darkness. These moments—your love and care—mean more than we can ever say. You remain part of our family, and we are so grateful to have you in our lives as we continue to honor Gordon’s legacy.

The anguish of losing Gordon is a weight we carry every day, one that will never truly lift. It’s the silence where his laughter used to be, the empty chair at our table, the memories that bring both joy and tears. Yet through it all, we are learning to carry his love forward. Grief does not diminish love; it amplifies it. It reminds us how deeply someone mattered, how profoundly they were loved, and how their spirit remains with us even now.

Caitlin feels this loss in her own profound way as Gordon’s sister. “Gordon was my big brother—my protector, my friend, my confidant. His absence is so much more than moments missed; it’s part of the world that no longer feels whole. I see him in songs we shared, in childhood memories, and in the quiet moments when I wish I could turn to him for advice or a laugh. I will always carry him with me.”

As a family, we are committed to honoring Gordon’s memory through action, love, and connection. We share his story because his life mattered, because his struggles can shine a light for others who feel alone, and because we want to help those who might be walking a similar road.

To those of you who continue to hold us close, please know how much you mean to us. Your support reminds us that we are not walking this journey alone. Through your kindness, you help us keep Gordon’s memory alive, and for that, we are forever grateful.

For every family who knows this pain, for every parent, sibling, or friend who has experienced this kind of loss, we want you to know that you are not alone. Grief is a path we did not choose, but we walk it with love in our hearts. Gordon is with us always—his light guiding us, his memory lifting us, and his love reminding us to keep moving forward.

In loving memory of Gordon Corsetti—our son, Caitlin’s brother, our forever light. Thank you for being part of our lives and for helping us keep his light shining.

Here are some posts from this year as I do my best to keep Gordon's website meaningful and relevant. I encourage you to take a moment to read some of Gordon's posts—they are truly incredible and filled with wisdom. His words may resonate with you or perhaps help someone you know who needs a little support.

In the immortal words of Gordon: "It's OK, not to be OK."

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In 2024, the Gordon Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation continued its mission to provide resources and support for mental health awareness and suicide prevention. The foundation's blog featured several poignant articles that highlighted personal stories, community engagements, and the importance of support networks.

A Little Piece of Joy

In November, Lou Corsetti shared a heartfelt reflection on finding moments of joy amidst grief. He recounted how Nick Luisi ran the New York City Marathon in honor of the foundation, embodying the spirit of "No Let Up" and "Take Care of Your Crew." This act served as a reminder of the enduring impact of community support in the journey toward mental wellness.

Mentally Agile

Stepping Up with Sigma Chi

October saw Lou Corsetti speaking to over 200 fraternity brothers at the University of Georgia. The engagement emphasized the significance of mutual support concerning mental health. The fraternity's initiative, "The Fight Against Suicide," successfully raised over $200,000, demonstrating the power of collective action in combating mental health challenges.

Mentally Agile

That's What Friends Are For!

In June, Lou reflected on the unwavering support of his lifelong friends, particularly during challenging times. He emphasized the importance of maintaining connections and the simple yet profound act of reaching out to loved ones, encapsulated in the advice: "Make the call."

Mentally Agile

Ron and Gordon

May's entry delved into the deep bonds of friendship and mentorship. Lou reminisced about his friend, Ron Mallonee, and the lasting impact of his son, Gordon. The narrative underscored the significance of preserving legacies and the continuous effort to keep loved ones' memories alive through storytelling and shared experiences.

Mentally Agile

All About the Hug!

In April, the blog highlighted the profound impact of simple gestures, such as a hug, in providing comfort and connection. The article explored how physical expressions of support can play a crucial role in mental health, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding.

Mentally Agile

Throughout 2024, the foundation's blog served as a platform for sharing personal narratives and community initiatives, reinforcing the importance of connection, support, and proactive engagement in mental health advocacy. These stories not only honored the memories of those lost but also inspired ongoing efforts to support individuals facing mental health challenges.

For more insights and resources, visit the Gordon Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation's blog.

Mentally Agile

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