The lacrosse community in Peterborough, Ontario, and beyond is mourning the tragic and sudden passing of Eric Hainer, a beloved player, teammate, and Assistant General Manager within the Peterborough Jr. A Lakers organization. His death in a car accident has left family, friends, teammates, and the wider lacrosse family devastated.
Eric’s passing has sent shockwaves through the sport, with tributes pouring in from across the lacrosse world. The Peterborough Jr. Lakers expressed deep sorrow at the loss, remembering Eric not only for his contributions to the organization but also for the lasting relationships he built within the team and community. He was the son of longtime Assistant GM Mike Hainer and the brother of Jr. A Lakers alumnus Jackson Hainer, making him a central figure in a family deeply connected to the sport.
In addition to his administrative role, Eric was also an active and passionate player, competing at the U22 level and proudly representing his team during the Medicine Cup tournament. Those who shared the field with him remember a dedicated athlete who played with heart, discipline, and respect for the game. His presence during the tournament left a lasting impression, both for his performance and his leadership on and off the floor.
In a heartfelt tribute, the Fury organization shared that Eric tragically lost his life while traveling home after competing in the tournament. The team described him as a player who embodied the spirit of lacrosse, emphasizing his passion for the game and his connection to its traditions and values.
Eric was known for his deep respect for the roots of lacrosse. He often played with a wooden stick, honoring the heritage of the sport and demonstrating his appreciation for its cultural significance. Teammates recall him as someone who understood that lacrosse was more than just a game—it was a source of connection, meaning, and identity.
Perhaps most poignantly, Eric’s impact was felt in the moments leading up to his passing. During the Medicine Cup, he scored both his first and last goals for the Fury, a detail that teammates and coaches now hold close as a powerful and emotional part of his legacy within the team’s history.
Beyond his achievements on the field, Eric is remembered as a loyal teammate, supportive friend, and someone who uplifted those around him. His energy, sportsmanship, and love for the game left a lasting mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
As the lacrosse community comes together in grief, many are reflecting on Eric’s passion, character, and the joy he brought to the sport he loved. While his passing leaves a profound void, his legacy will continue to live on through the memories he created and the lives he touched.
Eric Hainer will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always honored within the lacrosse community. Rest easy, Eric.