Most people are never roasted but Andy Lupo of West Windsor will soon be able to cross that achievement off his bucket list. He is being recognized by West Windsor Little League for more than 23 years of service. During his tenure Lupo served as a board of director including 12 years as league president. The roast, a benefit for the league, will be held Saturday, October 10, at West Windsor Fire House.
“Andy accomplished a very long list of initiatives to improve the Little League program; impactful initiatives such as partnering with West Windsor Township for building the indoor facility at Community Park, building the batting cages at Ward Field, working to create the ball fields at Community Park and Conover Park, creating the announcer booths at fields at Ward, installing sound systems at Ward, as well as expanding the parking lot,” says Ruth Kusner Potts of West Windsor, whose son played for WWLL for six years.
“As with many of the local organizations, parents volunteer to ensure the success of the organization,” says Potts. “Little League is a special organization to lots of local families, so it is great to honor Andy, but also help raise funds for the future of the organization.”
Lupo was raised in Bayonne where his parents not only worked hard to provide for the family but were involved in activities for him and his sister. “My dad helped start and build the Pony League program and field there. I remember working side by side with him clearing the fields of rocks and debris,” says Lupo. “He told me if you live in a community, you need to get involved whether it was giving time, money, or labor. I learned early on, that to make any difference you need to step up.”
Lupo graduated from the University of Scranton with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. He has been president at UniCredit Capital Markets for close to 15 years. He has also chaired West Windsor Parking Authority for more than 12 years.
“I could not have done this for as long as I have without the support of my family,” says Lupo. “Carolyn and my boys all put in many hours helping the program.”
His wife, Carolyn Steeber Lupo, does accounting work for YogaSoul and does work with their tax business. Their sons live in New York City. Jon graduated from High School South in 2005 and received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Washington & Lee University. He has been a manager at Tower Research Capital America for three years. He is marrying his high school sweetheart, Christina McGovern, in November. She was also raised in West Windsor. Ryan graduated from High School South in 2007 and received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Williams College. He has been a manager in the recruiting department at ZocDoc for more than three years.
“I always loved baseball, so when my oldest son Jon was ready to play, I was ready to help,” says Lupo, who worked on the facilities with both his father and his father-in-law in the early years. “It’s funny as many of the tools and equipment in the baby monster shed have my dad’s name on them,” he says. “I hope we can raise a few dollars to help maintain the complex.”
The biggest rewards for Lupo involved the players and to see how they enjoyed their playing time. “Watching their development in both baseball and softball each year was very nice to see,” he says. “I used to judge our success by how many players returned the following season.”
Lupo’s favorite accomplishment was with the indoor facilities at Community Park. “I was proud of the facilities we provided for them,” says Lupo. “I know little leaguers and high school players will continue to use this for years to come.”
“My biggest challenge will be letting go as I still have a tremendous draw to the program,” says Lupo. “I continue to drive by and check on things.”
Ellen Vogt stepped into the role of president a few years ago. “She has done an amazing job. It allowed me to transition out much easier,” says Lupo. “The WWLL knows I am a phone call away.”
“I met so many wonderful parents and volunteers along the way and many are still friends today,” says Lupo. “I understand there are quite a few veteran board members and WWLL families from years past coming to the event and it will be great to see them.”
Lupo’s Last Laugh, West Windsor Little League, 153 South Mill Road, West Windsor. Saturday, October 10, 6 p.m. Benefit evening to roast Andy Lupo and the 23 years of service he provided to the little league. Proceeds will be used for facility improvements at Ward Field. Register. $75. 609-306-5819. wwll.org.
