It is commonly known that most athletes often begin their athletic careers at a young age, training from sunrise to sunset. Though for senior kicker Patrick Cleveland his story started differently.

Despite this being Patrick’s first year playing football, he has excelled in unimaginable ways.

“On the field, he’s a focused leader who makes sure everyone is in the best position to be successful,” teammate PJ Cormier said.  

Cleveland is believed to be a late bloomer, but to him, his late start is just the beginning of a new path.

“Football has strongly affected me, I’ve gained connections, friends and positive experiences,” he said. “It has also helped me to add discipline and responsibility to my daily life.”

Even though he’s only been playing football for his senior year, there has always been something pulling Patrick towards football.

“I’ve always had a love for football since I was a kid, I looked up to Brandon Aubrey, he’s my inspiration,” Cleveland said.

Yes, Cleveland is the kicker, but he is also a defender for the varsity soccer team. Being a dual sport athlete, he has to find some balance between both.

“Balancing soccer and football is difficult because football is from morning to late afternoon, while club soccer is directly after. Due to the strain put on my body and mind, I always make sure to get proper rest and hydration, so I can be the best for both,” he said.

His first sport is soccer, but he’s found things in football that no one else can teach him.

“Football is my positive impact, it has shown me how to always fight adversity, be disciplined and responsible in my daily life,” Cleveland said.