Dec. 3, 2001

Stony Brook, N.Y. - St. Anthony's High School standout softball player Jessica Paparella signed a National Letter of Intent to play softball for Stony Brook University, head coach Megan Bryant announced.

Paparella, a Deer Park, N.Y., native, was 11-3 last season, throwing two perfect games and posting an ERA of just .33. Paparella was named All-Long Island and Long Island Catholic High School League Player of the Year, in addition to receiving 2000-01 Newsday All-Long Island honors.

"Jessica is a terrific student-athlete who is truly committed to excellence on and off the field," Bryant said. "She knows what it takes to be successful and will work hard to achieve her goals. We believe that SBU is a great place for Jessica academically and athletically and I look forward to working with her."

Stony Brook begins its first season of America East Conference play this season.