Richmond signs impressive trio of transfers

Jan 7, 2013 - 9:37 PM University of Richmond, VA (Sports Network) - Richmond football coach Danny Rocco announced his program's signing of three transfers - quarterback Michael Rocco from Virginia, wide receiver Shane Savage from Cornell and tight end Sean Fitzpatrick from North Carolina - on Monday.

Michael Rocco is the nephew of Danny Rocco and started 21 games at Virginia the last three seasons, including eight this season. He threw for 4,731 yards and 27 touchdowns and had 24 interceptions with the Cavaliers.

Per NCAA rules, Rocco must serve a year in residency. However, Richmond will seek a waiver to permit Rocco to be eligible to compete next season.

Like Rocco, Savage will have one season of eligibility remaining at Richmond. He has graduated from Cornell after three seasons in which he finished fourth all-time in receptions (154) and fifth in receiving yards (2,013).

Fitzpatrick can play two seasons at Richmond. He appeared in 12 games for the Tar Heels in 2011, including the Independence Bowl.

"We are all very excited about these additions to our program," said Rocco, whose team went 8-3 and earned a share of the CAA Football title this season. "All three student-athletes have outstanding resumes as well as transferring in from competitive academic institutions. Our ability to continue to build depth and to create an element of heightened competition will increase our probability for continued success."

Richmond announced all three players will begin classes next week.