Monmouth College Athletics

David Purlee’s strong, accurate right arm served him well in his years with the Fighting Scots. He came to Monmouth from nearby Roseville and used that arm to pass footballs, shoot basketballs and gun down opposing baserunners as a catcher. When his career was done, Purlee had accumulated 11 varsity letters, been named the Most Valuable Athlete of his class three times and earned the 1976 football MVP award.

He will be best remembered for his junior football campaign, when he earned All-American honors, passing for 1,236 yards and eight touchdowns. He ranked fourth in passing in the nation. He ended his career with 2,656 yards and 27 TDs.

On the baseball diamond, Purlee’s Scots were MWC champions in 1975 and they advanced to the West Region finals in 1976. Purlee was also a two-year starter on the basketball squad.