2026 NLL Hall of Fame Induction honors eight lacrosse legends in Niagara Falls

NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. — Eight new members of the National Lacrosse League Hall of Fame were celebrated Saturday night, with careers spanning generations of professional box lacrosse.

The 2026 class includes seven former players and one broadcaster, with careers spanning some of the league's most defining eras of box lacrosse. And as the night began, NLL Commissioner Brett Frood celebrated the people who made it to this moment.

“Just really proud to be here,” said Frood. “Thankful to have so many people witness your induction. I want to say congratulations to all the inductees.”

For Rochester Knighthawks owner J. Conrad Seneca, the night was also a reminder of what the sport can mean beyond the floor.

“Lacrosse is a game that brings families together, and it brings communities together and builds bridges,” said Seneca. “And it’s such a special thing.”

That connection was on full display during Mike Accursi’s induction. Six-time NLL champion Matt Vinc, who introduced Accursi, spoke not just about his former teammate, but about a friend he still looks up to.

“I’m thankful for your friendship, and you always being that guy that’s willing to show up and lend a hand,” said Vinc. “I still look up to you, but now in a different light.”

And when Accursi took the stage, his thoughts turned to someone who couldn’t be there to see it: His father.

“Your belief in me, on the good days and the hard ones molded me into the man that I am today,” said Accursi. “And I know my dad is looking down right now with a familiar smile saying, ‘You did it Mark.’”

The emotion continued with the induction of Jake Bergey. His introducer, former three-time All-American Mike French, described the qualities that have defined the Bergey name for decades.

“Last 50 years I’ve been in the Philadelphia area, that Bergey name has become synonymous with toughness, athleticism, speed, dedication, and leadership,” said Bergey.

But for Bergey, the significance of the night also came back to family. And to his father, whose loss still shapes moments like this.

“My dad, who we lost a few years back,” said Bergey. “I know he would have been proud.”

For Accursi, Bergey, and the rest of the inductees, the night was about much more than the honor of having their names enshrined. It was about the people, families and friends who helped carry them there, and the legacy they’ll now leave behind in NLL history.