The Lycoming College family is grieving the devastating loss of Mark Barnes ’01, a legendary athlete whose influence on the school’s lacrosse program and the lives of those who knew him will never be forgotten.
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His sudden passing has left teammates, friends, and family with heavy hearts, even as they celebrate the life of a man who gave everything to the game and to those he loved.
Barnes entered Lycoming in 1997, joining a program still finding its footing as a varsity team. Within a year, he had cemented himself as a cornerstone of its success, leading the Warriors to their first MAC Championship final.
A Career of Excellence
Over four years, Barnes embodied leadership, resilience, and excellence, transforming both the team and the culture around it. Known as a longstick midfielder, he redefined what the position could be.
His career statistics remain remarkable: 733 faceoff victories, a 10-groundball-per-game average, and 85 total points on 47 goals and 38 assists. Few players in college lacrosse history have combined defensive dominance with offensive output in such a way. At Lycoming, Barnes was more than a standout—he was the standard.
His achievements were recognized widely. He earned All-American honors three times, was named the 2000 MAC Player of the Year, and served as team captain for three consecutive seasons. Under his leadership, the Warriors compiled a 38-22 record, consistently ranking among the conference’s best.
A Lasting Legacy
Barnes’s impact extended far beyond his playing days. He was inducted into the Corning East Hall of Fame, the Lycoming College Hall of Fame, and in 2021, the Middle Atlantic Conference Hall of Fame—becoming only the second lacrosse player ever to receive that honor.
Coach Gene Peluso summed up his presence: “His teammates loved him. They knew who the alpha dog was. We had some guys on offense who could score, but there was no doubt who our leader was. How he went, we went.”
Barnes was the heartbeat of the team—feared for his intensity, admired for his skill, and celebrated for his ability to inspire those around him.
Beyond the Game
Beyond accolades and championships, Barnes will be remembered as a father, mentor, and friend. His devotion to his children—Jacob, Justin, and Kallie—was evident in everything he did. For his family, teammates, and countless others, his passing leaves a void that can never be filled.