Patrick’s Story

Patrick continued his water polo career at UCLA, where he became a two-time NCAA champion. In 2016, his UCLA team broke the record for the longest winning streak in NCAA history. Known for his humility, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to his teammates, he embodied what it meant to be a team-first player. His leadership extended beyond the pool as a member of the Bruin Athletic Council, helping to shape the athletic culture at UCLA. In honor of his legacy and contributions to the program, the Patrick Woepse Award was established in 2024 to recognize those who exemplify his character, dedication, and impact on the team’s culture.

After graduating in 2017, Patrick moved to London where he worked in medical device sales and took advantage of every opportunity to travel. His adventurous spirit led him to explore over 10 countries, always seeking new challenges and experiences. In 2018, he moved back home to California and pursued a career in real estate development, a field where his ambition and drive thrived.

Patrick found immense joy in open-water swimming, often heading out in the early mornings before work to train in the ocean. After his climb to the base camp of Mt. Everest in 2020, he set a new goal: swimming the Catalina Channel. He completed this accomplishment in August 2021 with a time of 12 hours and 53 minutes. A couple of years later, he achieved another extraordinary feat, swimming the English Channel in August 2023 in 10 hours and 28 minutes. These accomplishments reflect his relentless determination and continue to inspire all those who have heard his story.

The Patrick Woepse Foundation was established to honor Patrick’s life and his story while raising awareness for NUT carcinoma and other rare cancers. The foundation’s pillars of legacy, collaboration, hard work, and resilience were built with Patrick’s story in mind. Our logo represents our foundation’s efforts and symbolizes our extended hands and minds to reach for change.

Patrick’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and love. He showed us all that We Can Do Hard Things—and that even in the most challenging moments, we can still show up for those we love.