Hall of Fame
In 1974, Coach Bob Patten left an established football program at South Mecklenburg High School for Charlotte Latin, which had neither a team nor a playable field. He enlisted students in physical education classes to clear rocks from the field to create an acceptable field. After teaching history during the day, Coach Patten was a one-man staff, serving as equipment manager, athletic trainer, and the sole football coach. He eventually recruited one volunteer assistant.
Only three years later, in the fall of 1977, Latin won its first state championship in football. The following year, Latin repeated as state champion, and also recorded the first win against Charlotte Country Day School. Coach Patten was known for involving all members of the Latin community, including members of Latin's special education class. He demanded as much of his players in the classroom as on the athletic field, setting the model for the academic/athletic balance that is so valued at Latin.
Although he retired from coaching in 1983, Coach Patten continued to serve Latin as Upper School Dean of Students and Upper School history teacher until his death in July 1990. On November 3, 1989, Latin's football field was named and dedicated the "Patten Stadium in honor of Robert Alvin Patten, Jr."
Coach Patten and his late wife, Mary Sue, are the parents of Bob Patten, Beth Patten Griffin and John Patten '83.
