Gary Patterson was born on February 13, 1960 in Kansas. He grew up with a passion for football and began playing at a young age. Patterson attended Kansas State University, where he played safety and linebacker for the football team from 1980 to 1981. It was during his time at Kansas State that he developed his skills and knowledge of the game, setting the stage for his future career as a coach.
After his playing career, Patterson transitioned into coaching. He started as an assistant coach at Tennessee Technological University before moving on to coaching positions at UC Davis, Cal Lutheran, Utah State, Navy, and Sonoma State. In 1998, Patterson joined Texas Christian University (TCU) as the defensive coordinator. His impact was immediate, as he helped turn around the team's defense and earned a reputation as a defensive mastermind. In 2000, Patterson was promoted to head coach of TCU.
Off the field, Patterson values family. He is married to his wife Kelsey Hayes Patterson and they have three sons named Josh, Cade, and Blake. Despite the demands of his coaching career, Patterson always makes time for his family and is a dedicated husband and father.
In conclusion, Gary Patterson's journey from a college player to a highly respected football coach is a testament to his unwavering dedication, passion, and commitment to the game. His impact on the lives of his players, his coaching success, and his strong family values have solidified his legacy in the world of college football.