Former Syracuse Lacrosse Coach Honored at JMA Dome

John Desko to be inducted into Ring of Honor at university's iconic sports venue.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 9:07pm

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John Desko, the former head coach of the Syracuse University men's lacrosse team, will be inducted into the Ring of Honor at the JMA Dome, the university's iconic sports venue. Desko led the Orange to 11 Big East championships and five NCAA Division I titles during his 23-year tenure as head coach before retiring in 2021.

Why it matters

Desko's induction into the Ring of Honor is a testament to his remarkable coaching career and the lasting impact he had on the Syracuse lacrosse program. The Ring of Honor recognizes the university's most legendary figures, and Desko's inclusion solidifies his place among the all-time greats in Syracuse sports history.

The details

Desko, who took over as head coach in 1999, led the Orange to an impressive run of success, including 11 Big East championships and five NCAA Division I titles. During his tenure, the team made 18 NCAA tournament appearances and won 20 or more games in a season on 10 occasions. Desko was named the National Coach of the Year four times and was inducted into the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame in 2023.

  • Desko was named head coach of the Syracuse men's lacrosse team in 1999.
  • He led the Orange to 11 Big East championships and five NCAA Division I titles during his 23-year tenure as head coach.
  • Desko retired from coaching in 2021.
  • He will be inducted into the Ring of Honor at the JMA Dome on January 27, 2026.

The players

John Desko

The former head coach of the Syracuse University men's lacrosse team, who led the Orange to 11 Big East championships and five NCAA Division I titles during his 23-year tenure before retiring in 2021.

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What they’re saying

“It's unbelievable to think that my name is going to be up there on the Ring with the names that are already up there,”

— John Desko

The takeaway

Desko's induction into the Ring of Honor at the JMA Dome is a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional coaching career and the lasting impact he had on the Syracuse lacrosse program. His success in leading the Orange to multiple championships and tournament appearances solidifies his legacy as one of the greatest coaches in the university's storied sports history.