Albany, GA- Basketball is a game of many emotions. Through the ups and downs, Coach Patrick Gayle has learned to channel every emotion into focus, perseverance, and leadership. Capitalizing on every opportunity of life shoots his way, both on and off the court.
 
Coach Gayle is originally from Brooklyn, New York, and has been leading the men's basketball program since 2018. Under his guidance, the Golden Rams achieved the 2020 SIAC East Division Title and made a strong run in the conference tournament, finishing as the runner-up. This season, he steered the team to their best performance since 2019, ending with an impressive record of 18-12. Before his time at Albany State, he was the head coach at St. Thomas University and a two-time Sun Conference Coach of the Year.
 
We had the opportunity to catch up with Coach Gayle, and here's what he had to say:
 
Q: What helps you remain level-headed during the intensity of the game?
A: Faith in the Lord, including saying silent prayers and trust in the preparation.
 
Q: What do you believe is a top-tier quality in a player, and how do you help cultivate this quality in them?
A: Emotional intelligence is the number one trait that I look for in a top-tier quality player. No matter how talented, having self-awareness and internal drive can push any player to achieve great rewards.
 
Q: In your career, what is a lesson you've learned that has transformed the way you approach life?
A: Experiencing the losing seasons at ASU has had the biggest impact on my career. I was spoiled at my previous school to never have a losing season. This has taught me to be stronger in my faith, mental health, and humility.
 
Q: Which aspect of your personal development has been most influenced by your role as a coach?
A: The biggest aspect of my personal development that has been influenced by my role as a coach has been my ability to allow young people to grow into their purpose. With experiencing the transition of young men to fathers, coaches, and leaders, I have learned to allow for growth with the young men that I encounter.
 
Q: What do you consider key to building a strong team?
A: Resources are the number one need to build a strong team. Their personal needs must be met before they can fully conform to the rigors of participating in collegiate athletics.

Now for a little fun,
Favorite Hobbies: watching film, reading the Bible, and gardening
Three athletes you believe are the Greatest of All Time:
If you weren't coaching, what other career would you pursue?: Higher education administration
Favorite vacation destination: Any tropical island with access to a beach
Favorite time of the year: Spring
 
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ABOUT ALBANY STATE ATHLETICS
Albany State University is a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II-level intercollegiate athletic program. The university currently field teams in 11 sports: women's volleyball, women's tennis, women's cross country, men's and women's basketball, softball, men's and women's track and field, women's soccer, baseball, and football. All teams compete in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), except women's soccer, which participates in the Peach Belt Conference.