Births on April 5

Gary Gait, Canadian lacrosse player and coach

Gary Charles Gait, born on April 5, 1967, is a legendary figure in the world of lacrosse. This Canadian athlete boasts an extraordinary career that spans professional play, international competition, and now, a distinguished coaching role. His impact on the sport is undeniable, marked by numerous accolades and records that solidify his status as one of the greatest lacrosse players of all time. After dominating the field for years, Gait transitioned into coaching and currently serves as the head coach for the men’s lacrosse team at Syracuse University, the very institution where he honed his collegiate skills. His expertise was also recognized when he was named the Interim Commissioner of the United Women's Lacrosse League on January 24, 2017.

A Collegiate Lacrosse Legend: Syracuse Orange

Gait's journey to lacrosse stardom began at Syracuse University, where he played for the Syracuse Orange men's lacrosse team. From 1987 to 1990, he was a four-time All-American, earning first-team honors from 1988 to 1990. During his collegiate tenure, Gait was instrumental in securing three NCAA championship titles for the Orange, showcasing his exceptional talent and leadership on the field. His individual brilliance was recognized with the prestigious Lt. Raymond Enners Award, presented to the most outstanding college lacrosse player, which he won twice in 1988 and 1990. Gait still holds remarkable records at Syracuse, including the career goals record with an astounding 192 and the single-season goals record with 70, a feat that stood as an NCAA record until 2008. His profound influence on collegiate lacrosse was further cemented in 1997 when the NCAA Lacrosse Committee honored him, alongside his twin brother and Syracuse teammate, Paul Gait, by naming them to the esteemed 25th Anniversary Lacrosse team.

Dominance in Professional Leagues: NLL and MLL

Following his stellar collegiate career, Gary Gait transitioned seamlessly into the professional ranks, leaving an indelible mark on both indoor and outdoor lacrosse. He dedicated an impressive 17 years to the National Lacrosse League (NLL), where he quickly established himself as a dominant force. Gait was named Rookie of the Year in 1991, an early indicator of the greatness to come. He went on to earn league MVP honors for an unprecedented five consecutive years, from 1995 to 1999, and was awarded All-Pro honors in every single season he played. Throughout his NLL career, Gait led the league in points and goals seven times, contributing significantly to three league championships. He concluded his indoor career with a staggering 1,091 points, a league record at the time of his retirement.

His impact extended to outdoor lacrosse as well, playing five seasons in Major League Lacrosse (MLL) from 2001 to 2005. Here, Gait continued his winning ways, securing three league titles and earning co-MVP honors in 2005. His versatility and unwavering skill made him a threat in any format of the game, consistently elevating the performance of his teams.

International Acclaim and Hall of Fame Induction

Beyond professional leagues, Gait proudly represented Canada on the international stage. His most memorable international achievement came in 2006 when he played a pivotal role in helping Canada win the World Lacrosse Championship. This was a historic moment for Canadian lacrosse, marking the country's first world championship title since 1978. Gait sealed this victory by scoring four crucial goals in the final match against the United States, showcasing his clutch performance under pressure.

In recognition of his unparalleled contributions to the sport, Gary Gait has been deservedly inducted into two prestigious institutions: the United States Lacrosse National Hall of Fame and the National Lacrosse League Hall of Fame. These inductions celebrate a career defined by exceptional talent, record-breaking achievements, and a profound legacy that continues to inspire future generations of lacrosse players.

FAQs About Gary Gait

Who is Gary Gait?

Gary Gait is a Canadian retired professional lacrosse player and currently the head coach of the men’s lacrosse team at Syracuse University. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest lacrosse players of all time.

What were Gary Gait's major achievements in collegiate lacrosse?

At Syracuse University, Gary Gait was a four-time All-American, won three NCAA championships, and twice received the Lt. Raymond Enners Award for the most outstanding college player. He holds Syracuse's career goals record (192) and single-season goals record (70), which was an NCAA record until 2008.

What was Gary Gait's professional playing career like?

In the NLL, he played for 17 years, winning Rookie of the Year (1991), five consecutive MVP awards (1995-1999), and three league championships. He held the NLL career points record with 1,091. In MLL, he played five seasons, winning three league titles and co-MVP honors in 2005.

Is Gary Gait involved in coaching now?

Yes, Gary Gait is currently the head coach of the men’s lacrosse team at Syracuse University. He also served as the Interim Commissioner of the United Women's Lacrosse League in 2017.

Did Gary Gait achieve international success?

Absolutely. Gary Gait represented Canada and helped them win the 2006 World Lacrosse Championship, scoring four goals in the final against the United States, marking Canada's first world title since 1978.