When Patrick Bernardo returned to his alma mater to serve as head coach of the football team, he was not satisfied with an average program. He is determined to establish a lasting mindset and a successful team both on and off the field.
Bernardo was a student here who graduated as a member of the class of 2016. He went on to play Division III NCAA football for Salisbury University, where he excelled as a linebacker, earning NJAC Defensive Rookie of the Week in his freshman year. Throughout his life, Bernardo has been recognized as a diligent and accomplished student and individual.
Physical education teacher Maggie Dyer said Bernardo always demonstrated a positive attitude and has always had a clear vision for his future. “He always did his best, had a great attitude, and looked out for his peers. I really enjoyed discussing football and wrestling with him because he was a highly motivated athlete who understood how to be a leader. One specific memory I have of Pat is after a challenging basketball game. The next morning, he came to my first-period class with a cup of coffee, and we talked about the game. He understood how much passion I had for coaching basketball because he shared the same passion and determination for his sports.”
This year marks Bernardo’s first season as head coach of the football team. However, he is already regarded as an outstanding coach who feels as though he has been coaching for a long time. Junior and varsity football player Noah Hurwitz said, “Coach Bernardo is a great coach who is very passionate about the team and gets the best out of every player.”
Hurwitz also said that during his seven years of playing football, “He is different from my previous coaches because he builds bonds and connections with each player. He is a coach everyone can count on.”
Bernardo excels at establishing a standard mentality. Sophomore and junior varsity football player Eshaan Mishra, who began playing tackle football this year, acknowledges the influence and impact Bernardo has had on his football journey. “Coach Bernardo has consistently pushed me to my limits this season and motivates me to improve every day.”
Bernardo possesses a driven mentality. He said, “You know, every once in a while, you can be good at something. You can be lucky or talented. But with a sustained culture over time, you’ll be successful every single year. The process of achieving success starts in December of the previous year. It involves lifting weights, attending workouts, participating in practices, and buying into academics and nutrition. The most challenging yet rewarding part is transforming and building that culture.”
With Bernardo as the new head coach, the football team has a favorable future ahead. Defining success, he quotes legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden, “Success can’t be defined by a win or loss. Success is defined by your team’s ability to reach its full potential.”
