Paul Patterson Nearing End of UT Swimming Career

Determination. It is what can inspire others and bring out the best in those few determined enough to achieve greatness. Perseverance is transcending pain and hard work to accomplish goals and dreams. Possessing one is a feat in itself, but the combination can pave the way to success, much like that of University of Tampa swimmer, Paul Patterson.

Senior Patterson has spent his entire tenure with the UT swimming program, working and studying hard in his four years under head swimming coach Ed Brennan.

"Coach Brennan and coach Kiner have helped ground me with my busy schedule and major, I could not have done it without them," the finance major said of his coaches. "[The coaches] are more relaxed and customize everything per athlete, and they don't sweat the small stuff, which is why I liked the program and feel that I have been successful here."

Patterson started swimming at the age of 11 where at first he was hesitant about the new sport. "I was really uncoordinated, which is why my mom told me to try swimming, it was hard to get into at first but she told me to stick with it and after four years I was forcing her to take me. She has always been extremely supportive, she wasn't happy about taking me to practice at 4 a.m. but she still did it."

Support systems are crucial to many athletes, but being one to others can be equally as important. The Indianapolis native's brother Jake transferred to Tampa after a year at Purdue due to the size of the school and found his home away from home with Patterson.

Not only did he inspire his own family, but the swimmer also worked closely with Big Brothers, Big Sisters while in high school, to mentor others and give back to the community.

When asked what inspires him to be a better athlete, the finance major stated "My team, everyone on the team pushes each other to be the best, it is better to have an entire team behind you and pushing you to do better than any one person."

Being a positive role model requires the person to have great role models themselves. Paul Patterson is able to inspire others because he himself has had great mentors and is sharing his positive experiences with others.

Written by Marc Jordan