Junior Maurice Purify has been turning heads throughout the track and field season, quickly establishing himself as one of the premier high school athletes in the state of Nebraska. The talented junior has carved out a name for himself with standout performances, particularly in the long jump, an event where his explosive athleticism and unwavering work ethic have propelled him to the top of the state leaderboard. With every jump, Purify continues to raise the standard, not only for himself but also for the competitors striving to keep up.
Currently, Purify leads the state in the long jump with a personal best of 23 feet, 1.25 inches, an impressive mark that showcases his dedication to the craft. But his dominance isn’t limited to the runway. On the track, Purify has consistently delivered strong results in the 100-meter dash, regularly placing among the top finishers in major meets. He’s also a crucial member of the 4×100-meter relay team, which recently took first place at the Westside Invitational. Running alongside senior Keynan Cotton and fellow juniors Bryson Williams and Montana Costello, Purify helped solidify their team as one of the fastest in the state.
Purify’s journey in track and field began early in high school.
“I got into track my freshman year,” he said, “but I really started taking it seriously my sophomore year once I saw my potential, especially in the jumps.” That decision to fully commit to the sport has paid off, as Purify now finds himself with a clear vision for where he wants to go next. “A big personal goal for me this season is to win state in the long jump,” he said. “That’s been on my mind since the end of last year. I’ve been working every day with that in mind.”
Part of that drive comes from the people around him, especially Coach Lloyd, who has played a major role in shaping Purify’s mindset and performance.
“Coach Lloyd motivates me the most,” Purify said. “He has experience coaching top jumpers, so I know I’m learning from one of the best. He pushes me to be better every practice and never lets me settle.”
Purify’s athletic talent extends beyond track and field. He was a key contributor to the football team this past fall, playing a vital role in the team’s offensive success. Over the course of the season, Purify hauled in 22 receptions for 298 yards and two touchdowns, averaging an impressive 13.5 yards per catch. His ability to stretch the field and serve as a reliable deep threat made him an essential part of the Warriors’ passing attack.
Athleticism runs in the Purify family. Maurice’s father, Maurice Purify Sr., had a notable college football career at the University of Nebraska. In 2006, he solidified his name into Husker history by catching a game-winning touchdown in the final seconds against Texas A&M, a moment that helped Nebraska secure the Big 12 North Division title. Purify Sr. later signed with the Cincinnati Bengals and now shares his knowledge of the game as the wide receivers coach at College of the Redwoods.
As one of the top jumpers in Nebraska, Maurice Purify has already made his mark, but he’s far from finished. With his eyes set on a state title and the drive to match, he’s poised to not only reach his goals but redefine what’s possible for high school athletes in the state. His combination of raw athleticism, discipline, and a hunger to improve makes him a rare talent, one who’s as committed to the grind as he is to the spotlight. Whether soaring through the air in the long jump or sprinting down the football field, Purify is building a legacy rooted in effort, excellence, and the belief that the best is still to come.
