Gorilla Leader Taps In

Mickey Patterson is more than just a rugby coach—he’s a dedicated athlete, a passionate mentor, and a man deeply rooted in the values of discipline and resilience. While he balances a busy life filled with family, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), and farm life, he finds the time to dedicate himself wholeheartedly to the sport he loves.

Mickey’s rugby story started in the 2009-10 season with Alliance Rugby. Transitioning from coaching football and BJJ, Mickey discovered a new way to connect with his children, providing them and other young athletes with a positive role model and mentor. His early years with Alliance Rugby allowed him to dive into the sport and establish a foundation for his unique approach to coaching.

In 2012, with a growing passion for rugby, Patterson founded the Eagle Mountain Gorillas in North Fort Worth. What started as a community team evolved into something much greater—the Gorilla Rugby Academy. Over nine years as head coach, Mickey helped develop thousands of players from 12 years old up to adult athletes, offering an environment where players could grow and succeed. Under his guidance, the academy became known for producing top-tier talent, with many of Mickey’s players advancing to play in Major League Rugby (MLR) and even representing their national teams on the international stage. The Gorilla Rugby Academy is a testament to Mickey’s dedication, vision, and ability to cultivate elite athletes.

In 2014, the nine-year coach was appointed Director of Girls Rugby for Rugby Texas, a role that showcased his commitment to growing the sport inclusively. Recognizing a need for an engaging competition structure, he introduced the 7s multi-tournament format for girls’ rugby—a format that quickly gained popularity and is still in use today. His work in Rugby Texas has been instrumental in creating competitive and developmental opportunities for young female athletes.

In recent years, Mickey continued his coaching journey with the Dallas Reds. From 2020 to 2022, he served as the Backs Coach, bringing his years of experience and strategic insight to the team. By 2023, he had taken on the role of Director of Rugby, shaping the team’s future and contributing to its growth in the 2023-24 season. Mickey’s leadership with the Reds reflects his passion for pushing the boundaries of rugby in Texas.

Outside of rugby, Mickey Joe has dedicated nearly two decades to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, training and teaching in this demanding martial art. BJJ is more than a pastime for him—it’s a discipline that has taught him resilience and focus, principles he brings into every aspect of his life. And while his love for BJJ, rugby, and coaching keeps him busy, he’s also a family man, who often jokes about being a “full-time headache” for his wife and kids. His commitment to his family and sports makes Mickey Patterson a well-rounded role model and a positive influence on all those around him.