A Year of Compassion, Connection, and Carrying Gordon’s Light: 2025 in Review

2025 was a truly beautiful and inspiring year for the Gordon J. Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation. Thanks to the compassion and generosity of so many of you, we were able to support numerous organizations dedicated to mental health and suicide-prevention work, organizations that lift others up in their hardest moments, just as Gordon always did.

This year reminded us, again and again, how powerful community can be. You showed up with open hearts, helping us continue Gordon’s mission of compassion, courage, and connection.

Honoring Gordon Through the Game He Loved

We began the year in March with Gordon’s Memorial Lacrosse Tournament, where teams from across the Southeast gathered to honor Gordon and share his messages of “It’s OK not to be OK” and “Take Care of Your Crew.”

Because of the heartfelt support from fans, friends, and sponsors, we raised nearly $20,000. People traveled from all over the country to attend, and the two days we shared were filled with love, laughter, remembrance, and joy. Seeing Gordon’s friends serve as honorary coin flippers, and witnessing how deeply his spirit continues to move this community, is something we will treasure forever.

Save the Date:

March 13–14, 2026
Fellowship Christian School
10965 Woodstock Road, Roswell, Georgia 30075

A Journey of Healing, Lacrosse, and Connection

This summer, Mary Jo and I traveled to Casper, Wyoming, to speak at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming during their Mental Health and Lacrosse Jamboree. It was another meaningful and healing experience, filled with young people eager to learn, listen, and connect.

Read the full blog post here:

https://mentallyagile.com/blog/2025/8/17/a-journey-of-healing-lacrosse-and-connection

As summer continued into fall, I had the privilege of speaking at several high schools and universities. A dear friend also invited me to join a panel for suicide survivors at SAP, an incredibly humbling and heartfelt opportunity.

One of our proudest moments of the year was speaking at The Fight Against Suicide, created by Cooper Heath, one of my former players, alongside David Edmiston, Jackson Stuart, and Reilly Spitzer. Their passion for breaking the stigma around mental health and bringing hope to young people is extraordinary. They continue to invite me to speak with college students about suicide prevention from the perspectives of a parent, a coach, and a survivor. We are so grateful for their important and deeply needed work.

Event Link: https://www.thefightagainstsuicide.com/

13 for 13: A Fundraiser Filled With Meaning

In September, we launched our 13 for 13 Fundraiser, a tribute to the number Gordon wore throughout his lacrosse career. The meaning behind “13” in our lives runs deep, as shared in the blog post below.

Our original goal was to raise $13,000—but you, our incredible community, once again went above and beyond. Together, supporters from around the world contributed over $26,000, including a generous $10,000 gift from Gordon’s Godfather and the Roger V. Coleman Foundation.

Many of you honored the theme with gifts of $13, while others gave $113, $213, $513, or $1013. Every single donation—no matter the amount—was a reminder of how loved Gordon is and how committed you are to carrying his mission forward.

We can’t thank you all enough.

Read the 13 for 13 Blog Post:
https://mentallyagile.com/blog/2025/8/27/13-for-13

Celebrating Gordon’s Legacy at Elite Lineman Training Institute

To close the year, I traveled to the Elite Lineman Training Institute in Tunnel Hill, Georgia—where Gordon trained to become an electrical lineman. Gordon accomplished so much in his life:
Black Belt in Martial Arts. Web Developer. NCAA Lacrosse Official. Certified Skydiver. Yoga Instructor. Teacher. Coach. Mentor. Friend. A deeply loving brother and son.

Yet I believe the pride he felt graduating from Elite and beginning that new chapter was unmatched. It was his calling—just as being a mental health advocate was.

Gordon was part of Class 6, and his wall signature still hangs there proudly. Because the equipment required for training can be expensive, the Foundation gives a $1,000 scholarship to a graduating student from each class who embodies Gordon’s strength of character, leadership, and compassion for others.

Visit Elite Lineman Institute: https://elitelineman.com/

And don’t forget—you can get your “Take Care of Your Crew” and Gordon J. Corsetti Mental Agility apparel online!

A Heartfelt Thank You

From the bottom of our hearts, we want to thank every one of you for walking with us, supporting us, remembering Gordon, and helping us continue his mission. Your generosity allows us to keep spreading his messages:

“It’s OK not to be OK.”
“Take Care of Your Crew.”

We truly could not do this without you.

We truly could not do this without you.

Make a Year-End Gift That Makes a Difference

As the year comes to a close, we invite you to support the Gordon J. Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation with a tax-deductible donation. Your generosity directly fuels our mission to promote mental health awareness, suicide prevention, and compassionate support for individuals and communities in need.

Every gift—large or small—helps us continue Gordon’s legacy and bring hope, education, and life-saving resources to thousands across the country.

Give before December 31 to receive full tax benefits for the year.

From our hearts to yours, thank you for standing with us and supporting this life-changing work.

If You Need Help, You Are Not Alone

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

• For mental health support, visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).

• For confidential treatment referrals, visit SAMHSA or call the National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Our Beautiful Son

When our son Gordon James Corsetti passed on December 2, 2022 it was unimaginable and much of the week preparing for his memorial service was a blur trying to hold it together was quite a monumental task. Over the years I have spoken at many players’ services, and I’ve attended many more. I always wondered, quietly, respectfully, how parents, siblings, grandparents, and friends ever found the strength to stand, to speak, to breathe through a moment like that. I could never understand it. Not truly.

And then it was our turn.

Death is part of Life, I know that. I’ve said it, I’ve believed it, I’ve counseled others with those words. But when it comes for your own child, those truths feel like they dissolve in your hands. Even now, it hurts just as much as it did that day. The ache hasn’t faded, but something else has grown alongside it: the ability to find Joy. small, surprising, undeserved Joy, in each day. Some days it’s faint, some days it’s clearer, but it’s always there if I look for it.

That strength doesn’t come from me. It comes from my faith. I used to say I believe, but I don’t wear it on my sleeve. I thought that was humility or maybe privacy. But grief has a way of rearranging what matters and what doesn’t.

Over this past month, I’ve been posting Bible verses. One a day, to get me through today. I wake up with a word on my mind, and I open the Bible searching for what God has to say about it. Today, it’s raining in Atlanta. So the word was rain. And what I found wasn’t about storms or floods, it was this simple truth:

"He weeps with those who grieve." (John 11:35)

One of the shortest verses in Scripture, but somehow one of the most comforting. It reminds me that Jesus didn’t stand apart from sorrow, He entered it. He met broken hearts with His own tears. And if He can weep with us, then surely He can carry us.

So I’m choosing to wear that on my sleeve now. If sharing my faith helps even one person get through one hard day, just one, then it’s worth whatever disagreement or misunderstanding may come. Because grief isolates, but hope connects. And Gordon’s life, Gordon’s love, Gordon’s legacy deserve to be connected to hope.

Today we remember him. Today we miss him.
And today, even in the rain, I trust that God is still here, grieving with us, holding us, and reminding us that love does not end.

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

Mental Agility Donation

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).

"Take Care of Your Crew" Store is open

Our “Take Care of Your Crew Store is now open! All proceeds from online purchases go to the Gordon J. Corsetti, Mental Agility Foundation.

The Gordon J. Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation Partners with Secondslide to Promote Mental Health Awareness and Suicide Prevention in Sports

11/11/2025, Atlanta, Georgia — The Gordon J. Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and suicide prevention, is proud to announce its partnership with Secondslide, a leading provider of custom team retail and merchandise solutions for sports teams.

Through this collaboration, the two organizations aim to amplify awareness for mental health support and education among athletes, coaches, and communities across the country.

Founded in honor of Gordon J. Corsetti, a passionate lacrosse advocate, author, and mental health champion, the Mental Agility Foundation continues his legacy by offering resources, education, and open dialogue to help individuals build resilience and seek help when needed.

“Gordon believed deeply in the power of community and honest conversations about mental health,” said Foundation President, Lou Corsetti,  of the Gordon J. Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation. “Our partnership with Secondslide allows us to bring that message to the field, where athletes, families, and fans can see it, wear it, and live it.”

Secondslide, co-founded by Nick Ossello, former professional lacrosse player and ESPN broadcaster, provides teams with streamlined, customizable online stores for uniforms, gear, and spirit wear. The company’s innovative platform makes it easy for teams to launch and manage branded merchandise while supporting meaningful causes.

“Sports can be a powerful platform for positive change,” said Nick Ossello. “We’re proud to partner with the Mental Agility Foundation to help raise awareness and reduce stigma around mental health and suicide prevention, especially in the athletic community.”

As part of the partnership, a portion of proceeds from team shop sales will go directly toward supporting the Gordon J. Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation’s programs, including educational outreach, mental health workshops, and community engagement initiatives.

For more information about the Foundation’s mission and programs, visit https://mentallyagile.com

For more information on Secondslide, visit https://secondslide.io/

A Time of Reflection

It’s remarkable how losing someone you love, especially a child, changes the very rhythm of everyday life. Simple moments can feel like mountains to climb. Grief takes you on an emotional journey that none of us are ever truly prepared for, and yet it’s something we all experience in some way during our lives.

Writing has become a comfort for me, it’s healing, and it helps me keep Gordon’s beautiful spirit and legacy alive. Mary Jo and I feel deeply blessed by the love and support of our family and friends, who have lifted us up during our hardest days, just as we’ve tried to be there for them in their times of need. Sometimes it’s a simple text or a kind message, other times a call, a meal, or just being together. Each gesture means more than words can express.

Death, as difficult as it is, is part of life, though it’s something we only truly begin to understand when it touches us personally. One of my college football teammates recently sent me a YouTube video from a pastor that spoke about the Tragedy, Mystery, and Victory of Grief. I found it profoundly moving, and I wanted to share it here with everyone who follows Gordon’s posts:

The Tragedy, Mystery, and Victory of Grief

Some of my hardest moments come from thinking about how deeply Mary Jo and Caitlin hurt knowing their pain might even be greater than my own. I can still see Mary Jo on the floor with Gordon, his head nestled in the crook of her arm as they laughed together. I can picture her teaching him to hold a hammer and knock down a wall. I hear Caitlin’s laughter echoing through the house as Gordon chased her, the two of them plotting how to surprise me. These memories visit me daily. Sometimes they bring wide smiles, and other times they bring tears I can’t hold back.

Every day, I do my best to keep moving forward. It’s not always easy, but I find strength through my faith in God and the power of prayer. I know that everyone’s connection to faith is different, and that’s perfectly okay. For me, though, it’s been my anchor. I don’t think I could make it through without it.

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).

Carrying Gordon’s Light: Speaking, Healing, and Fighting the Stigma of Suicide

Over the last few weeks, I’ve had the humbling honor of sharing Gordon’s story and mission through the Gordon Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation with students at The University of South Carolina and The University of Georgia. What made these events even more meaningful was the incredible group that brought me in: The Fight Against Suicide, an organization founded by one of Gordon’s former players, Cooper Heath, along with David Edmiston, Jackson Stuart, and a growing team of energetic, passionate young men and women who are changing the world, one campus at a time.

The Fight Against Suicide: Young Leaders Taking Action

Cooper Heath, a player I had the privilege to coach at the Marist School, was a remarkable athlete, tough, smart, driven, but it's his heart and purpose today that truly make me proud. Alongside his co-founders, Cooper has helped create something truly powerful in The Fight Against Suicide, an organization that hosts week-long awareness events at universities across the country, culminating in a unique and compelling way: a fraternity-run boxing tournament to spark conversations around mental health and tear down the stigma surrounding suicide.

These events are held in honor of the Sam Asbury Foundation (samasburyfoundation.org), another incredible initiative that supports youth mental health in memory of a beloved son lost too soon. The courage it takes to build these programs, to stand up publicly, and to fight for awareness — it’s nothing short of extraordinary.

If you haven't yet, please take a moment to learn more about what they're doing at

thefightagainstsuicide.com. I promise you’ll walk away inspired.

SAP & AFSP: A Moment of Unity and Healing:

In addition to these student-led efforts, I had the honor of joining SAP’s “Talk Saves Lives” Summit in partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) at the SAP Alpharetta office.

My dear friend Roland Brand graciously moderated the event and shared the following: “I was incredibly honored to moderate the SAP/AFSP Talk Saves Lives event at our SAP Alpharetta office yesterday. Thank you Chelsea Piatt, Programs Manager for the AFSP Georgia Chapter, for your insightful presentation on suicide awareness and prevention. Thank you to our wonderful group of panelists for sharing their personal stories of loss, Lisa McCann, Founder of The James Henry McCann IV Foundation; Jim Ford, Crisis Counselor at Crisis Text Line and Board Member of AFSP Georgia Chapter; and Diane Gillen, AFSP National Loss and Healing Council. A special recognition to Lou Corsetti, Founder of the Gordon Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation at mentallyagile.com for attending the event on short notice and sharing his experience. Last, but not least, a special note to my dear friend and colleague, Denise Cunningham, for bringing together our panel and organizing this incredible event. ”These moments of vulnerability, shared grief, hope, and purpose remind us that the healing we seek begins with conversation, compassion, and community.

Walk With Us: AFSP Cherokee County Out of the Darkness Walk:

As this mission continues, I invite you to join us at the upcoming AFSP Cherokee County Out of the Darkness Walk on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at Etowah River Park, Canton, GA. Event Info & Registration: Cherokee County Out of the Darkness Walk

These walks are not just symbolic they are powerful acts of solidarity, remembrance, and advocacy. As I reflect on these past few weeks, I'm reminded that Gordon’s story is not one of just loss, but of legacy. Through young leaders like Cooper and organizations like AFSP, his message is reaching hearts across the country. At 65, I’m far from done. There is more light to share, more lives to touch, and more change to make.

Thank you for walking with me, and with Gordon as we continue to shine that light into the darkness.

With grace and gratitude,

Lou Corsetti

The Gordon Corsetti Mental Agility Foundation

https://mentallyagile.com

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).

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