The Shoreham-Wading River (SWR) Central School District is mourning the loss of Adrian Gilmore, a beloved coach, mentor, and educator, who passed away unexpectedly.
Adrian, who served as the Women’s Lacrosse Coach at SWR, was known for his dedication to both the sport and the students he coached. His untimely death has left a deep hole in the community, where he had made a lasting impact on the lives of countless young athletes.
Adrian Gilmore was a passionate advocate for lacrosse, but his influence extended far beyond the game itself. Over the years, he built a reputation not only as an excellent coach, but as a mentor who was committed to developing the character of his athletes both on and off the field.
Under his guidance, the Shoreham-Wading River Women’s Lacrosse team flourished, earning numerous accolades and providing young women the opportunity to grow through teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.
As a coach, Adrian’s approach was rooted in a philosophy that emphasized not only skill-building but also leadership and personal development. He believed in pushing his athletes to be their best, but always with kindness, patience, and understanding.
His coaching style was marked by a rare combination of high expectations and deep empathy, qualities that earned him the respect and admiration of both players and parents.
Beyond the victories and championships, Adrian’s greatest legacy was the way he influenced his players’ lives. Many former athletes have shared how his mentorship extended beyond the field, offering guidance during difficult times and always encouraging them to reach for their dreams.
For Adrian, the relationships he built with his athletes were far more important than wins and losses. He was a coach who truly cared about his players as individuals and was always there to support them in their personal and academic pursuits.
Adrian was more than just a coach at SWR—he was a vital part of the school’s athletic community, always involved in various events and initiatives. His commitment to fostering a positive environment for all students was evident in everything he did.
Whether he was helping with practice, offering advice to a player, or supporting his colleagues, Adrian’s enthusiasm and dedication were felt by everyone around him.
Outside of his work at Shoreham-Wading River, Adrian was known for his strong sense of community and involvement in local initiatives. He believed in giving back and was always ready to help in any way he could.
His sense of humor and lighthearted nature made him a friend to many, and his positive energy was infectious. People who knew him spoke of his warmth and genuine desire to make the world around him better.
Adrian leaves behind a legacy of excellence in coaching, but his most lasting impact will undoubtedly be the values he instilled in his athletes. His approach to coaching was never about making stars out of individuals but about creating a strong, cohesive team where everyone supported one another and grew together.
He taught his athletes about hard work, perseverance, and kindness—lessons that would carry them through life, far beyond the lacrosse field. Adrian is survived by his loving family, who have expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support and condolences from the community during this difficult time.
They have shared how deeply Adrian loved coaching and how proud he was of the athletes he worked with. The family has also spoken about his love for his friends and the community, which he considered an extension of his own family.
In honor of Adrian’s memory, a memorial service is being planned, and friends, family, and former athletes will gather to celebrate his life and legacy. His death has left a tremendous void in the SWR community, but his spirit will live on through the countless lives he touched.
His players, colleagues, and friends will forever remember him as a coach who taught them more than just lacrosse—he taught them about life, leadership, and the power of community.
Adrian Gilmore’s passing is a heartbreaking loss, but the impact he made during his time at Shoreham-Wading River will never be forgotten. His contributions to the school and to the lives of his players are a testament to his dedication, love, and selflessness. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.
