Coquitlam Football Star Plays for More Than Himself

Joe Patko is a driven and accomplished member of the Terry Fox Ravens football team, gaining recognition for his strength and aggressive style for over four years. But perhaps most impressive is this young man’s commitment to playing for those around him.

Substituting football for hockey at age 12, Joe plays fullback and middle linebacker, which involves constant helmet-to-helmet contact, but it’s not the aggressive contact on the field that Joe is partial to. He likes the connection between him and his teammates. “The contact and bond you have with your team,” is what he treasures most about the game. “I have become great friends with my teammates.”

Joe demonstrates his love for the game and strong dedication to the team through his work ethic. “Our team practices for five days a week for two and a half hours each day. I also work out in the gym for an hour each day. During the summer, I continue to train in the gym while my dad trains me on the field.”

As an impressive player with a devotion to practicing, Joe has won numerous awards, which include the 2006 BC High School Football Subway Bowl Outstanding Back Award, 2007 Terry Fox Ravens Captain Crunch Award for hardest hitter, co-winner of the 2007 Terry Fox Top Back award and was named a 2008 AAA high school senior football’s Player of the Week in September.

Powerfully determined to have the finest season yet, Joe also aspires to influence his younger brother Jacob. “This year I am working hard to have my best year of football, which will motivate my younger brother Jacob and give him some incentive to meet his own goals. Jacob is currently playing on the junior varsity Terry Fox Ravens. My teammates and I are striving to have an undefeated championship season.”

While Joe is victorious on the field, he also gives praise to his family for his triumphs. “My whole family has supported me throughout my years of playing football. My coaches have challenged me to be my best and my friends have supported me in the stands which has also been a big influence.” With a future plan to go to university while playing football to obtain an education in either the structural engineering field or kinesiology medical sciences, Joe Patko has his priorities straight and is playing for much more than himself this season.