Learning About the Author:
Though an ex-professional hockey player, Patrick likes to think being a father to his two sets of twins is his best accomplishment. Born and raised in Canada, his playing career took him all over the United States until he finally retired in Cincinnati, Ohio. It was here after an 11 year hockey career that he settled down. Patrick was always active in the community through the teams he played with and the various school programs he helped run. This coupled with being a parent, pushed him into wanting to get his stories out. Though 'The Dragon and Me' is his first published book, Patrick has many other stories in waiting. He stays active in the community teaching hockey to local children from the beginner levels all the way up to the high school level. Patrick likes to say "Hockey is such a great sport that the more I can do to promote the growth the better."
Patrick was drafted by the Minnesota North Stars in 1989, he only played one NHL game in a Star uniform before appearing in two seasons with the San Jose Sharks. It was during this time Patrick scored his first NHL goal, was married and had his first set of twins. From here he found himself in the minors once again and celebrating the birth of yet another set of twins. Though an IHL all-star many times and also a member of a championship team, he was always active in the community. Patrick was awarded the IHL Man of the Year Award for community service in 1999. He also received his second straight Cincinnati Cyclone March of Dimes player of the year. He was given these awards due to the high number of schools he visited with reading programs and promoting "Healthy Goals". During this time Patrick would often read his stories to the students, all were greatly received.
