Dave Purdy was awarded the first Rick Buerkle Memorial Award by the Hillsborough Youth Lacrosse program on June 4.
The organization was created the honor to annually acknowledge the volunteer who goes “over and beyond” in support of lacrosse in Hillsborough.
During the early years of the Hillsborough Lacrosse program, Rick Buerkle was a tireless and selfless volunteer who sacrificed his personal time and spent countless hours preparing the fields and facilities, said Rich Dupras, president of Hillsborough Lacrosse.
“He was the person there early in the morning and late into the day during the event,” said Mr. Dupras. “He was always that person who could be found emptying garbage cans, painting lines on fields, restringing goals and doing just about anything else that was needed to make Hillsborough lacrosse events as successful and enjoyable as possible for all those who attended.
“While doing all of this, Rick never once complained, never once looked for a thank you, and never ever said no,” said Mr. Dupras.
The Rick Buerkle Memorial Award was created in honor of Rick’s contributions and to recognize his legacy of volunteerism. Each year this award will recognize the outstanding volunteer who has emulated the standard for volunteerism that Mr. Buerkle set.
Mr. Purdy, a Hillsborough resident, was presented the award by Mr. Dupras and the Buerkle family of Patti, Ryan and Alison.
“Dave was involved in many different roles, most notably as coach, tournament director, equipment manager and board member, and quietly set the example for others in the program,” said Mr. Dupras.
The primary goal of the Hillsborough Lacrosse program is to teach the fundamentals of lacrosse in a fun and competitive environment to boys in grade one through eight.
For information, visit www.hillsboroughlax.com.
