Patrick Wales-Dinan built his coaching foundation at Harvard University as Associate Head Cross Country Coach from 2014 to 2017, leading the women's team to their first Ivy League title in 31 years and earning Coach of the Year honors.
From Harvard to High School Success
After departing Harvard in 2017, Patrick Wales-Dinan took the head cross country and track coach role at Monte Vista High School in Danville, California, entering his eighth year by 2025. His teams captured three consecutive East Bay Athletic League championships from 2022 to 2024 and won their first North Coast Section Tri-Valley title in 2025, with athletes setting 14 school records. These achievements reflect the discipline and resilience he honed during his Harvard tenure.
Enduring Coaching Philosophy
Patrick Wales-Dinan's Harvard experience instilled values of consistent effort, leadership, and holistic athlete development, which he applies across levels from college to high school and club coaching. He has mentored over 20 NCAA All-Americans, multiple champions, and Olympic Trials qualifiers, emphasizing mental toughness alongside physical training. This approach ensures athletes gain life skills like perseverance and teamwork, extending his Harvard lessons into ongoing success.
Impact Across Careers
Today, Patrick Wales-Dinan coaches the Bay Area Track Club while directing programs at Monte Vista, blending elite performance with personal growth. His USATF Level II certification in endurance events supports athletes pursuing national and Olympic standards. Harvard's influence remains evident, as he continues shaping resilient leaders through sport.