Coker Hall of Fame Inductee- April 23, 2002
Patricia Hughes, a 1993 graduate of Coker College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education, was a four-year standout on the women’s soccer team. Eight seasons after her final match Hughes ranks as the leading goal scorer in Coker history with 58, is second in points scored (136), and is fifth all-time in assists (20).
Patricia was twice named as an NAIA All-American, once as an NSCAA All-American, a four-time NAIA All-District Performer, and was also named NSCAA All-Region four times. She was as four-year captain at Coker and was twice named Best Offensive Player and team MVP.
Hughes, originally from the Republic of Ireland, has 20 caps with the Irish National Team and has played professionally in the United States in the W League. Patricia was a Dean’s list student at Coker and also served as an Ambassador for Admissions.
Since graduating Hughes has earned her Masters degree in Education, coached at NCAA Division I and II levels, and has helped every team she’s coached qualify for its conference tournament. Patricia has been head coach at Belmont University, interim head coach at Auburn University, and is currently the head women’s soccer coach and adjunct Professor in the Department of Kinesiology at the University of Montevallo in Alabama.