FCA's lacrosse ministry honored Gordon Purdie, head men’s lacrosse coach at Adelphi University, with the 2024 Peter Kohn Award. Gordon was presented with the award at the Intercollegiate Men’s Lacrosse Coaches Association (IMLCA) Summit in Orlando, Florida, on December 11-13, 2024.
The Peter Kohn Award is named after one of the most beloved and unique figures in the lacrosse world. Through his numerous accomplishments as a coach and his involvement with FCA Lacrosse, Kohn was connected to the sport for 50 years. He was, and still is, one of the most recognized figures in the game of lacrosse.
Each year, the Peter Kohn Award, established in 1998, is given to a member of the lacrosse community who best represents the verse, “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends,” (John 15:13) and exemplifies the Christian principles of character, integrity, excellence and teamwork on and off the lacrosse field.
“Gordie is the right choice for this year’s Peter Kohn Award for several reasons,” said FCA Lacrosse Director of Maryland, Glen Miles. “His 2024 National Championship culminates a process of building a winning program by coaching through biblical principles and the outcome as a reward. He is a great friend to FCA, and has brought significant recognition to FCA as a member of multiple teams. Lastly and most importantly, Gordie exemplifies Peter’s way of laying down his life for his family, his friends, his staff, his team and the entire lacrosse community. He would do anything for anyone anytime.”
“Peter was a man of unwavering respect — no matter who he was speaking to, he treated everyone with kindness respect and dignity. He didn’t ever seek accolades; instead, he poured his heart into his work every day, driven by a genuine desire to make a difference. When praise came his way, he would gracefully deflect it, consistently shining a light on others,” said Gordon Purdie.
As the head coach of Adelphi University men’s lacrosse for 18 years and former lacrosse player at the university, Purdie has led the squad to three Northeast-10 Tournament titles, five NCAA Tournament berths, three Final Fours, the 2011 NCAA Division II National title game and most recently won the 2024 National Championship. He currently sits second all-time in wins for the program (172) and was welcomed into the Adelphi Athletic Hall of Fame in 1995.
Among Purdie’s astounding accomplishments as a coach and athlete, his faith has consistently shaped his life, providing him with strength and a sense of purpose. Before knowing about FCA his faith and lacrosse rarely crossed paths. Purdie leans on his faith to maintain control when the emotions of the game and the lacrosse environment get chaotic.
As a coach, Purdie always shares his authentic love and care for his players, while maintaining a respectful and consistent disciplined team. His style fosters a genuine love for the team, love for each other, and for the staff. Gordie believes when he is walking well with the Lord that he exudes the fruits of the spirit.
Through FCA, Purdie had the opportunity to express his faith through lacrosse. These experiences have allowed him to connect with other players and coaches who share enthusiasm for both lacrosse and their beliefs.
Purdie said, “He [Peter Kohn] taught us so many invaluable lessons: to love unconditionally, to serve selflessly and to uplift those around us. He lived his life as a testament to kindness, humility and grace. I try hard to bring that ‘guy’ to the field every day in my actions. It’s cool to partner with FCA and know that they are trying to help all coaches to do that everywhere. What a vision!”
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Photos courtesy of Adelphi University Athletics