Craig Patton looks at a framed Flyers rugby sweater with Jordan Gunderson of the F.P. Walshe school alumni association.
An emotional Craig Patton shared some insight May 10 into what drove him as a coach at F.P. Walshe school.
“It was a labour of love, that’s for sure,” Patton said moments after becoming the first person inducted into the alumni association’s new Forever A Flyer program.
“Every layer that I coached has a very special place in my heart.”
Close to 100 people turned out in the school gym to honour the longtime educator and coach, who will retire next month.
The honour came as a surprise to Patton, who entered the gymnasium with his wife Joanne to cheers and a standing ovation.
“This man changed my life, and the lives of a lot of other people in the crowd,” said master of ceremonies Mike Derricott, a member of the F.P. Walshe Class of 2000 and a proud Flyer.
The Forever A Flyer program is designed to honour people for outstanding contributions to the sports programs at F.P. Walshe.
A banner will be raised in the school gym with the names of people honoured through the Forever A Flyer program.
Derricott said Patton was a clear first choice.
“You set the bar incredibly high for the community and the Flyers programs,” Derricott told Patton.
Patton joined the staff at F.P. Walshe school in 1987 and since then coached in an estimated 50 rugby, basketball and volleyball seasons.
Derricott said an estimated 600 athletes on junior and senior high teams have been coached, pushed and mentored by Patton.
“Unbelievable,” Derricott said. “Thank you so much.”
Derricott messages provided by former athletes who recalled Patton’s encouragement, support, skill development and, when necessary, tough love.
They recalled how under Patton’s coaching they developed into multi-sport athletes.
One player recalled how Patton provided an old pair of cleats that stood up through their entire career.
The former players spoke of the fun they had on Patton’s teams, along with the camaraderie and friendships that developed.
They also talked about the league, zone and provincial playoffs in which Patton guided his teams to victory.
“Mr. Patton, there are thousands of stories and moments that each of us in this room can remember, share and celebrate,” Derricott said.
Alumni association members Anthony Burdett and Jordan Gunderson shared a slide show with photos of Patton and his players through the decades.
Patton spoke fondly of the connection he has with those many athletes he coached.
“Of all the things that I have, whether it is pictures or medals, means the most to me,” Patton said.
Patton said it was an honour to coach so many young athletes, and thanked the parents for their trust.
“Thank you for giving me the opportunity to help raise your kid with you,” Patton said.
The former players came out of the audience to gather around their coach for one final team cheer.
“I am very humbled,” Patton said.
