FORK UNION, VA — Fork Union Military Academy celebrated the college commitments of three postgraduate lacrosse players Wednesday morning as seniors Malachai Binder, Ryan Calligaro and William Jordan signed to continue their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level.

The ceremony marked another milestone for Fork Union's postgraduate lacrosse program, recognizing three student-athletes whose hard work, versatility and dedication helped shape a successful season that concluded with a 21-6 record.

With Wednesday's signings, the program achieved a notable milestone, with 100-percent of its eligible seniors and postgraduates committing to play at the next level. Of the team's 16-player roster, 15 cadets, seven seniors and eight postgraduates, have signed to continue their academic and athletic careers, underscoring the program's success in developing talent and preparing student-athletes for opportunities beyond the Academy.

"This is what it's all about," head coach Chris Panos said. "Watching these young men put in the work, grow as players and people, and earn these opportunities is one of the most rewarding parts of coaching. We're proud of all three of them."

Binder, a faceoff specialist from Worthington, Ohio, signed with Tusculum University, where he will compete in the South Atlantic Conference.

"Malachai has been a huge part of what we do," Panos said. "Faceoff is such a unique and critical position because it directly impacts possessions and momentum. Winning the ball at the rate he did this year is remarkable. He gave us opportunities every game and did whatever was asked of him. Tusculum is getting a player who understands how to impact winning."

A two-year member of the program, Binder dominated at the faceoff X this season, winning 82-percent of his opportunities and helping drive possession for one of the Academy's most productive offenses. The senior is the son of Katina Fitch.

"I really appreciate everybody who helped me through this process," Binder said. "Coach Panos, Coach Fry, Ms. Patrick, Coach Blake, Coach Tyrell and all my teammates have been there for me. We had some bumps in the road, but we stayed together and got through it."

Calligaro, a versatile midfielder from Alexandria, Virginia, signed with the University of Mary Washington, where he will compete in one of Division III lacrosse's most competitive conferences.

"Ryan's versatility made him invaluable for us," Panos said. "He played midfield, attack, defensive midfield, came off the wing on faceoffs and played man-up situations. He did whatever the team needed and produced at a high level. Mary Washington is getting a tough, team-first player who can impact the game in a lot of ways."

Originally recruited as a midfielder, Calligaro became one of Fork Union's most versatile players this season, contributing across multiple positions and finishing with 16 goals, 34 assists and 50 total points. He is the son of Robert and Lynne Calligaro.

"First, I want to thank my family for giving me this opportunity," Calligaro said. "I'm thankful for Coach Panos and Coach Fry because of how much they pour into this program, both on and off the field. There's so much work behind the scenes that people don't see, and I'm grateful for everything they've done for me."

Jordan, one of the program's final additions before the season, signed with the United States Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York, where he will continue both his lacrosse career and his pursuit of serving the country.

Jordan quickly became a key contributor, tallying 20 goals and 38 assists for 58 total points while filling multiple roles on both sides of the field.

"William came in late, but he made an immediate impact," Panos said. "He embraced everything we asked him to do and played all over the field. He handled the pressure of the recruiting process and stayed focused on his goal of attending a service academy. We're proud of him and excited for what's ahead."

Jordan is the son of Kevin Jordan and Melissa Tuorto-Jordan of Center Moriches, New York.

"There are no words to fully express how thankful I am," Jordan said. "Coach Panos, Coach Fry and Ms. Patrick have all been there for me through every step. The journey isn't over, but Fork Union helped prepare me for what's next."

To learn more about the Fork Union Military Academy postgraduate lacrosse program, click here.