Having spent decades influencing students in the classroom and on the playing fields, John Gleeson will be honored February 25, 2012 at the first in a series of events celebrating the legendary coaches for whom the new Cougar Track and Cougar Field will be dedicated later this year. 

For alumni players like Jeff Haines ’96, football under John’s tutelage was more than just learning about blocking and passing.

“George School football was so much more to me than the eight games a year we were privileged to play. I didn't realize it so much at the time, but I learned more about myself, life, accountability, communication, and relationships during those fall seasons than anywhere else,” said Jeff.

“It sounds cliché to say, but I wouldn't be who I am today without having had the opportunity to play football at George School. Just sitting here thinking about those four years brings a calm of happiness over me with so many memories and experiences racing through my mind. Those were years I will never forget.”

It has been said that football is a metaphor for life. As an English teacher and a longtime football and baseball coach, John couldn’t agree more. He is thoroughly convinced that sports provide a tremendous opportunity for students to learn and grow. He sees it as part of the total educational package offered at George School.

“Kids can take away from George School, and their George School football experience, a lot of lessons that they do apply in life such as finding that when you are confronted with a tough situation that you can handle it,” said John, a 1965 graduate of George School who joined the faculty in 1969.

For David Wright ’00, playing football helped build his self-confidence both on and off the field. Now, a minister, David credits John for helping him see that determination was a key factor to personal growth.

“I think what I take away most from George School football is the attitude of seeing diamonds in the rough,” said David, who had never played football before coming to George School. “Glees is someone who helped you believe in yourself long before you got there yourself.”

More stories and photos are shared on the George School Football Facebook page that has been created by former players to reminisce about their coach and their days on the field.

The event honoring John will bring fans, friends, classmates, and colleagues together on February 25, 2012 at the Northampton Valley Country Club. Other coaches to be honored at separate events include former athletic directors Anne LeDuc at the Middletown Country Club on March 31, 2012, followed by David Sattherthwaite ’65 on Saturday, April 21, 2012 at the Yardley Country Club, and Robert Geissinger on Friday, May 11, 2012 at the Middletown Country Club.

These events are the first in a series to honor beloved coaches as the George School athletics capital initiative moves forward.