Former Notre Dame ace Joe Lapira has inked a deal to join Adeccoligaen risers Nybergsund IL for the 2008 season.

The Toronto FC draft pick, who had previously trialed with the likes of Aberdeen and Rangers, is being counted on by manager Ola Brenden to enhance the Sundet attack as they move up to the Norwegian second flight.

Though Lapira's deal is short term, the club do hold an option to extend his stay beyond this season.

"The contract is to November," Brenden told American Soccer Daily. "If he will be good enough, then we will continue the discussion."

"He's tough, working hard and we hope he will score a lot of goals for us."

For his part, Lapira is excited to begin his professional career, albeit at a lower level than originally expected. The short contract does allow the 2006 Hermann Trophy winner to move easily should a more prestigious opportunity arise, but for now, he is focused on helping Nybergsund establish themselves in the Adeccoligaen.

"I want to contribute to the team," the Louisiana native told ASD. "I've only been here a week, so it's hard to know exactly what my role will be. I'm having a good time, the guys are great and the team has a lot of potential."

Said Lapira of potentially attracting bigger European clubs, "Hopefully, that will happen. I have freedom in case someone comes for me."

Nybergsund kick off their season Saturday when they visit Clarence Goodson and IK Start.