Purchase, NY (April 23, 2018) – Purchase men's lacrosse honored four seniors on Senior Night Monday.

Although Johan Morales (SR/South Hampton, NY) could return next season – something fifth senior Keefe Martin (SR/Brooklyn, NY) did this spring – he joined Justus Lacey (SR/Syracuse, NY), Justice Smith (SR/Manhattan, NY) and Bryan Ventura (SR/Bedford Hills, NY), as all five were mentioned by Sports Information Director Bobby Ciafardini, who MCed the brief ceremony prior to a 12-2 loss to St. Joseph's College-LI.

Martin was unable to attend and Smith is still recovering from injury, but it didn't spoil a nice evening for the ever-growing program. Head coach Michael Bocklet, Jr. penned some words for each of the four seniors, which Ciafardini delivered to the crowd. The five will be honored again this Thursday night during the department's annual awards banquet.

Lacey was introduced first.

"A silent leader, Justus has been a captain of this team ever since its inception. He leads by example and quickly became one of the programs most reliable players both on and off the field. Justus sets an excellent example of the character and work ethic necessary to make this program continue to be successful."  

Smith followed.

"The ultimate team-first player, Justice was eager to take on any challenges and opportunities that would help our program succeed," Ciafardini said. "Justice's energy and effort was contagious and whether in practice or a game, Justice was always a player that could raise the energy level for his team."

Ventura was the third senior introduced.

"A super athlete, Bryan took to longstick midfield quickly and never looked back. He worked tirelessly at improving his stick skills and overall game IQ. Bryan quickly became a leader of our defensive unit and set a high bar for those to follow in his footsteps."

Morales, one of the first members of the program, concluded the ceremony.

"Johan's dedication to this team has been unwavering. He has a team first mentality and willing to play any role necessary to better the team. Johan is a smart player with a nose for the goal. He has built a strong skill base through hard work and is well respected by both his teammates and coaches."

The Panthers looked strong early, perhaps fueled by the Senior Night vibe, but the Golden Eagles eventually broke through taking a 6-0 lead into intermission – five goals of which were scored in the second quarter following a very competitive first 15 minutes of play.

By game's end, Matt Prokesch, Chris Nielsen and Zak Jones paced the visitors with three goals apiece.

Purchase received goals from Dylan Gethicker (JR/Lime Lake, NY) and James Felix (JR/Scarsdale, NY).