Patrick Bryant Leading the Way for Atlantic Coast

17-year-old Patrick Bryant is a three-star wide receiver at Atlantic Coast High School, committed to play for the University of Illinois next fall. Bryant is extremely popular in Jacksonville for his athleticism – especially his speed once out on the field going against his opponents. With so much attention and love he receives from his family, peers and future “Illiniwek” fans, one would think that Bryant would be self-titled, but he is far from it. 

From playing at the age of three, Bryant knows all about hard work, commitment and determination. His father started his football training during his time being an organizer for the YMCA flag football committee. It was there where Bryant learned not only the wide receiver position, but other positions such as center, defensive back and quarterback. 

“I’ve played almost every position on both sides of the ball,” said Bryant. “I just liked scoring touchdowns, and I liked running away from defenders. I used to like contact but once I realized how easy it was to score a touchdown without contact, I was like, ‘yeah that’s easy.’ Wide receiver is one of the easiest positions to play on the football field.”

Being one of the best wide receivers in the region, Bryant has been heavily recruited since his freshman year. Playing for his school is one of his proudest joys despite the team not having the best record as others. But one thing is for certain: Bryant believes in his teammates and coaches and refuses to give up on them. He doesn’t want to be known for switching schools and giving up on his team like some athletes have done in the past.   

Check out the rest of his story in ITG Next Florida High School Sports Magazine November 2020 here for FREE!