March 5, 2009 - The Lindenwood men's lacrosse program announced today the signing of John Pettis, face-off specialist from Fort Zumwalt West High School in O'Fallon, MO.

"John is a competitor, pure and simple", said Lions Head Coach Troy Hood when asked to comment on the newest Lion. "He is strong on the ball at the X and is in the mix for every ground ball. In addition to his face-off skills, I believe he can develop into a complete player and help us at both ends of the field."

In his senior season with the Jaguars, Pettis hopes to make a run at the Missouri Scholastic Lacrosse Association Division 2 State Title after appearing in the state semi-finals last season. He'll be teaming up with Mahattan College signee Tyler Jarvis in the Jaguar midfield to do just that.

In addition to helping lead the Jaguars, Pettis has competed extensively with the St. Louis Samurai Blackbelt Club Lacrosse team. The experience with the Samurais has allowed him to travel extensively and play against a variety of clubs from all over the US.

Pettis will be pursuing undergraduate studies in Athletic Training and Exercise Science at Lindenwood and hopes to move on to study chiropractic medicine at Logan College of Chiropractic after graduation.

The Lindenwood men's lacrosse team is a member of the Men's Collegiate Lacrosse Association (MCLA). The Lions have won four straight Great Rivers Lacrosse Conference Championships and are regular participants in the MCLA National Tournament.

2009-03-05