Pittsford Signs Three NLIs

December 3, 2009 - Three Pittsford Varsity lacrosse players have signed National Letters of Intent to play lacrosse at college next fall. Pittsford Sutherland seniors Justin McLiverty and James Purpura and Mendon senior Joe Dupra each signed their Letters of Intent at a ceremony held at Speigel Community Center and attended by their coach, parents and friends.

Justin McLiverty plans to attend Robert Morris University, in Moon Township, PA, where he will major in business. In addition to playing varsity lacrosse for three years, Justin played on the Sutherland freshmen and JV basketball team, is current captain of the "Sutherland Superfans" basketball cheering squad and a member of DECA (business program activities club). Justin is also the Boy's Athletic representative on the US Lacrosse, Rochester Chapter, board of directors, a 2008 and 2009 member of the Adidas National Lacrosse Classic, Rochester, NY National Championship Team, and was selected for the Monroe County all-star lacrosse team. Justin is the son of Kathi and Al McLiverty.

James Purpura plans to attend Mount St. Mary's University in Emmitsburg, MD, where he will major in history and minor in psychology. James is a four-year varsity player, was offensive MVP in his Junior year, received a Monroe County Honorable Mention as a sophomore and was selected for the Division I 2nd team as a junior. James also played in the Section 5 Class A All Tournament Team in 2009, is an Adidas All American, a Top 205 All Star and was captain of the Sutherland Varsity Club. James is the son of Cynthia and Jamie Purpura.

Joe Dupra plans attend Marist College, Poughkeepsie, NY, to study athletic training or communication. In addition to being a four-year varsity lacrosse player, Joe is also a varsity football player and senior captain of both teams. He is also on the Mendon honor roll and a LINK Leader. Joe was selected for the 2008 and 2009 Adidas All American Team Rochester, the 2009 First Team All County, co-defensive MVP, a Section V Nike Team and 2008 and 2009 Brogden Cup Participant representing USA. Joe is the son of Linda and Mike Dupra.

All three players have been successful members of the Pittsford Panthers lacrosse team and have earned praise from head coach Andrew Whipple. "All three of these boys are very deserving of receiving these athletic scholarships to each of their respective schools. Each has worked very hard both on and off the field. They are all great lacrosse players and even more importantly are great people. I'm really looking forward to coaching them this year here at Pittsford as well as watching them continue to play in their colligate careers," said Coach Whipple after the ceremony.