PATCH DOLAN – SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT LIVES LEGACY OF EDWARD COOMBS
Though he never had the opportunity to meet Edward Taylor Coombs, Patrick “Patch” Dolan learned of the young man’s vibrant personality and infectious laugh, his tireless work ethic – in the classroom and on the lacrosse field – and steadfast commitment.
A Poughkeepsie, N.Y. native, Patch was introduced to Marist College Men’s Lacrosse Coach Keegan Wilkinson at age 7 when he and his father stopped by the college to see a game.
“My dad said it was love at first sight,” Patch recalled. The following summer, he joined Keegan for lacrosse camp at Marist. “I was Coach Wilkinson’s youngest camper.” Patch, a 2022 F.D. Roosevelt High School graduate, continued developing his lacrosse skills at annual summer camps through high school while learning about Edward and “his ability never to quit and always make the right decision.”
At 19, Edward was a rising sophomore at Marist College at the time of his untimely death in August 2011.
In addition to teaching him the sport, Keegan schooled Patch on Edward, as well as the non-profit organization that his family started, with the goal of providing scholarships to tomorrow’s leaders. A 2022 ETC Foundation scholarship-award recipient, Patch reflects on the life lessons he’s learned through the Foundation.
“Every decision you make impacts another person in one way or another,” he said. With that in mind, he constantly wonders, “How can I best benefit others?”
A sophomore at the United States Military Academy in West Point, N.Y., Patch has his work cut out for him. The top-notch academic experience “is nothing close to the average college experience,” Patch said of his 20-credit semesters and four-classes-per-day schedule.
“It’s a very diverse schedule,” he said. “Your brain’s getting pulled in all different directions.”
Patch manages the Men’s Lacrosse team at West Point, where, unlike traditional colleges, his studies continue year-round. He spends his summers focused on military skills and cadet field training. During the summer of 2023, Patch attended the Sabalauski Air Assault School, where cadets trained on helicopters, landing zones, load capacities, and the type of aircraft needed, depending upon the supplies required.
His final quest was a 12-mile ruck that he had to complete within three hours while carrying a 35-pound rucksack.
Future Career Aspirations
Beyond the grueling duties of the U.S. Military Academy, Patch has ambitious plans for his post-college career. Patch intends to serve as an active-duty Army officer for at least five years as his immediate outlook. A law and legal studies major at West Point, he hopes to obtain a law degree after his active duty work.
“It’s a little bit challenging with commissioning and figuring out that process,” he said.
Eventually, Patch sees himself serving in Congress.
How the ETC Foundation helped
Even before Patch had decided on college, the leadership of the ETC Foundation compelled him to work hard, make responsible decisions, and stay committed to his goals. He recalled with fondness Edward’s parents, Eric and Tina Coombs, talking to the Marist College lacrosse camp.
“Their values that they really try to shine and educate people on when they talk about Eddie is second to none,” Patch said. “I think about them constantly.”
Their influence on him, accompanied by Keegan’s high regard for Edward, led Patch to apply for the ETC Foundation scholarship. The award helped cover the cost of his military uniform required for West Point.
“They’ve been nothing but great for me,” Patch said of Eric and Tina.
Had it not been for a chance game at Marist College and meeting Keegan, Patch may not have known about Edward or the Foundation.
“I met a lot of great guys who went through that program,” he said. “The Marist lacrosse team always holds a soft spot in my heart.”
Also read – Danielle Hodges – Scholarship Award Winner
About ETC Foundation
The ETC Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering young leaders, has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of emerging talent. With a commitment to providing educational resources, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities, the ETC Foundation has become a proven catalyst for personal and professional growth. As a beneficiary of their initiatives, I have experienced firsthand the transformative impact of their support. Through tailored mentorship, I gained valuable insights and guidance from experienced professionals in my field, paving the way for a clearer understanding of my career path. The Foundation’s emphasis on skill development and exposure to diverse perspectives has equipped me with the tools needed to navigate the challenges of today’s dynamic world. By connecting me with a network of like-minded individuals and industry experts, the ETC Foundation has not only nurtured my personal growth. Still, it has also opened doors to future opportunities, ensuring that young leaders are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to the ever-evolving global landscape.
