Unionville football coach Pat Clark steps down
KENNETT SQUARE, Pa. — Over the course of 19 years, Coach Pat Clark has led approximately 475 young athletes out onto the field at Unionville Stadium for Friday Night Lights to play a game that many would learn was just one piece of the overall experience you get playing for him. Respect, integrity, leadership, hard work, compassion, and character are all part of the magic formula used by Coach Clark to create championship teams.
Coach Clark began his career as Unionville Football Head Coach in 2004. As a young English teacher at the high school, Clark would transition from the classroom to the field every fall and during the off-season to prepare his team. Last year, Clark was selected as one of the new assistant principals for UHS, which led to a tough realization; becoming assistant principal meant that the 2022 football season would be his last.
Over the course of his career, Clark led Unionville to eight league titles and 15 playoff appearances. In 2005, Unionville was District One runner-up, and in 2017, his team won the District Championship and went on to the State Semifinals.
Wins aside, Clark’s legacy prepared players for success in life. He used every outcome as a teachable moment.
Quintan Boyle, a senior captain and one of four Boyle brothers to play for Coach Clark said, “Coach Clark has helped us become more than just great athletes. The life lessons and the bonds we’ve gained from his leadership will stay with us for long after we’ve played our final game.”
At Clark’s final Homecoming game on September 30, Unionville Football alumni were invited to join Coach Clark and the current team on the field at the end of the game. Former players traveled from as far as Texas to be there to honor their beloved coach.
“It was a pleasure to play for Coach Clark during my four years in high school,” said Alex Gorgone, Unionville Class of 2018. “He led with integrity and is a role model to all of his players.”
Elan Nash, 1stLt USMC and former Navy Football captain from the Unionville Class of 2016 shared, “Coach Clark played a pivotal role in my development as a football player and a man. He was exemplary in demanding the most out of us, while creating a culture of brotherhood and respect. Coach’s leadership set us up for success on and off the field, for life.”
While many may remember him for his impressive coaching record, most will remember him for his incredible commitment to his players and our community. Thank you, Coach Clark, for 19 exciting seasons.
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