After competing in track and cross country at Proctor High School under such coaching legends as Ed Hermann, Lou Cook and Santo Paniccia, it seemed only fitting that Ralph Lupia would end up following in their footsteps.

Born in Utica in 1948 graduated from Proctor in 1966. After two years at Mohawk Valley Community College, where he participated in indoor track and basketball, he went on to Kent State University.

He earned a degree in Health and Physical Education in 1971. In 1975. he obtained his master's in health education from Cortland State.

He landed a job as a health teacher at Utica Free Academy, later Utica Senior Academy from 1971 to 1988, and began coaching on the side. USA reverted to Proctor High School and Lupia remained a teacher and varsity coach there until his retirement in 2003.

He was an assistant varsity track coach under Pete DeStefano at UFA from 1971- 1977. Lupia started the indoor track team at UF A in 1972.

He was elevated to head coach of varsity boys' and girls' cross-country at UFA, 1975-1985, and at Proctor High School, 1986-1988.

One of his protégés, Carl Boykin, won the New York State championship in the 110 high hurdles in 1979.

Lupia also assisted in running youth track clinics, track meets and speed camps for the City of Utica throughout the 1970's and 1980.

He has been a volunteer for the Boilermaker at the finish line, and has also volunteered at the Thanksgiving Day Hunger Run

In 1975, Lupia was voted Teacher Of The Year at UFA. He was named the outstanding educator by Rotary International of Utica in 1987 while teaching at Utica Senior Academy.

In 2003 he was chosen Man Of The Year by the East Utica Optimist Club.

He also serves on the board of Oneida County Youth Court.