Patrick Sweeney looks to continue to keep breaking his own records as he starts his junior season filled with new events and new goals.
Patrick Sweeney is currently a junior at Auburn High School and is a para-ambulatory athlete competing in the 100-meter and 200-meter events. He is the third para-ambulatory athlete to come through Auburn High School.
“Pat has always been a kid that shows you he can do anything anybody else can do. He doesn’t want handouts or you to hold his hand. He doesn’t want you to treat him special in another kind of way,” said LaDextric Oliver head track & field coach at Auburn High School.
According to the Alabama High School Athletic Association, “an ambulatory para-athlete must have a permanent orthopedic, neuromuscular, visual, or other physical disability. Permanent orthopedic impairment and/or visual impairment shall be verified by a licensed physician and maintained on permanent file at the school.”
Throughout his track career, Sweeney has competed in many events such as discus and shot put. This year he will also be participating in javelin for the first time along with the 400m.
He began running track in seventh grade and got into the sport for the competition aspect of it.
“I really liked running and competing against other schools. It made me drive myself more,” said Sweeney.
From the very beginning, Patrick loved to compete and continue to get faster. Oliver has known Patrick since the first grade, and Patrick described him as a father figure that has always pushed him to be his best.
“Something I want y’all to understand is that this kid does not accept the fact that he just goes out there and runs on his own… we have had many of conversations where I have had to get on him because he wants to PR every time. Pat is internally motivated,” Oliver said.
Oliver's biggest concern was Patrick would be too hard on himself for not performing up to his own lofty expectations.
It says everything about his work ethic and how much he puts into this sport. Patrick plans on attending either Auburn University or The University of Alabama and running track at the collegiate level.
Patrick draws inspiration from athletes across the sporting landscape, including international track and field and NFL stars.
“Miles Sanders for his speed and athleticism, Usain Bolt for his block starts, and Ronnie Brown for his speed,” Patrick said.
One thing Patrick has really been trying to improve on this year is his block starts. Coming off the block fast is one of the most important components in improving times, especially in the short-distance events that Patrick competes in.
The bond Patrick has built with his teammates is special. There are over 70 athletes on this year’s track and field team, and one thing Patrick loves about the program is how many friends and connections he has made while being a part of it.
“He’s a joy to be around," said Reggie Smith, an assistant track and field coach. "He's always laughing and like a son to me, and almost like an extra coach. At home meets when he’s not running, he helps with measurements and encourages others. The kids love that part of him and his attitude.”
All around, Patrick has found a special place at Auburn High School surrounded by a great community and a great group of coaches.
With the indoor season ending just weeks ago, with both the boys’ and girls’ teams both finishing top 10 in the state, expectations are high for the outdoor season as well.
As Oliver continues to set the tone for the program with some exceptional athletes such as Patrick, this season is going to be something that everyone in the Auburn community can look forward to watching.
— By CJ Webster