Patrick’s swimming journey started at the YMCA, where he took his first strokes at 6 and 7. High school saw Patrick thriving at Catholic High School for Boys and North Little Rock High School. But it was in USA Swimming where he truly made waves. From the Dolphins (under the late Paul Blair) to the Fort Lauderdale Swim Team at the end of his swim career (under Coach Duffy Dillon) Patrick's dedication was evident. His collegiate years at Henderson State University (Under the late Coak Mathews) were marked by challenges, including a two separate year hiatus, yet his determination prevailed. Patrick Bass's swimming journey has been a tapestry of triumphs, spanning local competitions to national arenas.
In 1997, 1998, and 2002, Patrick competed on the Sectionals Teams, highlighted by a 2nd place in the 100 fly 2002. He qualified for the US Open and Senior Nationals in 2004, marking his ascent on the national stage. Just missing Olympic Trials. In College Patrick secured a remarkable 10 All-American Spots, excelling in relays and the 100 fly. In 2004, he clinched the Conference title in the 100 fly and various relays. Patrick's impact earned him the Arkansas Coaches NCAA Division II Male Swimmer of the Year award in 2004, alongside Scholastic All-Conference and MVP honors. Patrick Bass's aquatic expertise didn't end in the pool – it transitioned seamlessly into coaching, leaving a lasting impact on aspiring swimmers.
Coaching: His coaching journey began at Lakewood (1996-2001), where he laid the groundwork for future champions. Guiding the NLR Boys & Girls Club Stars in the AAU circuit (2005-2006), Patrick honed his mentorship approach. Patrick's coaching spanned the Jack Nelson Swim Camp (2004), Searcy Sharks (2005-2007), AAU Teams, and a decade with the Central Arkansas Swim Club (2007-2017). Working with Darren Brown at North Little Rock High School (2005-2011), he not only sharpened his coaching skills but also imparted and learned valuable life lessons. Patrick's commitment extended to ASI, coaching in Zones (2010 & 2011) and contributing as an ASI HOD Board member (2007-2017). Patrick was a part of Team Arkansas to clinch the title of AAU Junior Olympic Champions with Coach Farrin Cain. Honored as ASI-ASCA Age Group Coach of the Year in 2010 for his influential coaching. In his time with CASC he and the team of coaches guided swimmers into breaking 42 State/LSC records, showcasing their knack for excellence. His coaching placed a swimmer in the esteemed USA Swimming All-Time Top 50 list and produced a Zones Champion, reflecting his ability to nurture top-tier talent. Coached Junior National Qualifiers, contributing to their success on a national level. Patrick’s coaching legacy echoes through the successes of swimmers he nurtured and the broader swimming community.
Then what Patrick claims to be his best achievement: Co-formation of the CASC Racer Program with Onat Tungac, Farrin Cain, & Debbie Pharr, leaving an enduring legacy with Arkansas Swimming.
Today: Patrick is excited to see his legacy continue with the Racer Program is stronger than ever with Coach Adam Nelsen's leadership. Patrick finds fulfillment and joy in various roles, shaping both his family and community: Patrick is married to Britteny Bass, the love of his life. Together, they are blessed with three incredible children: Sadie, Ren, and Rylie. Patrick has ventured into the realm of real estate, owning a Home Inspection Company and excelling as a Real Estate Inspector. They are actively involved in their church; Patrick's faith remains a cornerstone of his life. Patrick Bass's journey continues to evolve, enriched by family, career, and his unwavering commitment to faith and community.
