ATHENS, W.Va — Concord University Athletics is mourning the sudden loss of Assistant Football Coach Pat Dawson.
Dawson joined the program in 2011 to work with the team’s defensive line. He then added defensive coordinator to his title for the 2016 season.
“This program and this generation has lost a great man and coach,” Concord head football coach Paul Price said. “I have been specially blessed to work beside him over the past several years. I know that my world is better because of him and he will be forever missed.”
Dawson joined the program in 2011 to work with the team’s defensive line. He then added defensive coordinator to his title for the 2016 season. Since his arrival to Concord in 2011, Dawson has coached nine all-defensive linemen. More recently, Dawson coached Darryl Johnson towards a spot on the All-MEC Second team in 2016 as well as a contract with the Dodge City Law of Champion Indoor Football.
The late coach played an important role in the historical WVIAC Championship team in 2011. He was also with the team in 2014 when the Mountain Lions won a Mountain East Conference Championship, a Super Region One Title moved to the NCAA Division II Semifinals. Before becoming defensive coordinator, Dawson was the recruiting coordinator under then-head coach Garin Justice.
“The Concord Athletics family is deeply saddened by this tragic and sudden loss,” Concord Director of Athletics Kevin Garrett said. “Pat was one of those unique coaches that made everyone around him a better person. His zest for coaching and for life was contagious and inspiring. All of our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
A viewing will be held at Dunmire-Kerr Funeral Home from 1-3 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. The funeral will take place Wednesday, July 19 at St. Gertrude’s Catholic Church. Both are located in Vandergrift, Pennsylvania.