If you have ever watched a New England Patriots game on television, then you've no doubt seen the huge beard of defensive coordinator Matt Patricia. If you went to V-V-S High School in the late 80s, and early 90s, you may recognize the man behind the beard. The 2-time Super Bowl winning coach was born and raised in Sherrill, NY.

Patricia was born in 1974 to two school teachers. He grew up playing football, and wrestling while attending Vernon-Verona-Sherrill High School. Not only was he good at sports, but Matt was also a very good student. He went to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) where he played football, but also majored in aeronautical engineering. He also received his master's degree in education from The University of Massachusetts He used that intelligence, and a love of the game, to begin a professional coaching career. He worked at various colleges, including Syracuse University, before getting his first NFL job with The New England Patriots. He has been with New England for the entirety of his 13 year career. That career, so far, includes two Super Bowl rings.

Patricia is married with two sons. He still has family in the area. He is one of several people with prominent positions in sports from Central New York. Brian Angelichio is the tight ends coach for Green Bay, and he is from Ilion. Also, the commissioner of Major League Baseball once called CNY home. Rob Manfred was born and raised in Rome, NY.


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