Lane Patton signed to play tennis at Freed-Hardeman University. A recent graduate of Chester County High School Patton carries a record of 20-5 for his Junior year and 31-10 for his senior year for a combined 51-50 in his two-year CCHS career. During his senior year, Paton was regular season singles champion and Regional Semifinalist.
“I had the privilege of coaching Lane Paton for his senior year of Tennis,” said CCHS Boys Tennis Coach Chris Melton. “I saw him grow from a player with potential, to the No. 1 seed on the team. I seriously doubt there will ever be another player on the team that will outwork Lane Paton. He always sought to improve his game. He worked out before matches, after matches, and private lessons while maintaining his schoolwork and part-time job.
“Lane has a knack for making near impossible shots seem regular. There were many times this season where I thought, ‘There’s no way Lane will get to the ball or hit it,’ but he usually did, and usually won the point. I now just think, ‘Why would you ever doubt Lane Paton?’
“Freed Hardeman is getting a player with talent, but more importantly, a hard worker and natural leader,” Melton continued. “Lane’s personality and uplifting spirits are contagious. If you are around Lane Paton for an extended period of time, you will walk away feeling better.
“The jump from High School tennis to College tennis is a difficult move, but if anyone could do it, I’ll take my chances with Lane Paton.
