Gannon University Athletics

A standard-bearer for excellence on and off the field, Pat Cain distinguished himself as one of the most accomplished tight ends the program has ever produced. Competing from 2000–03, Cain's career coincided with the early years of Gannon's scholarship football era, where his consistency, production, and leadership helped shape the foundation of the modern program. 

Cain appeared in all 39 games of his Gannon career and emerged as one of the most reliable and productive offensive weapons in program history. He finished with 101 career receptions for 1,263 receiving yards and 15 touchdown catches. Upon graduation, Cain stood as Gannon's all-time leader in touchdown receptions, ranked second in career catches, and third in receiving yards. While those totals have since been surpassed, he still remains among the program's all-time leaders in that category. 

His on-field performance earned widespread recognition at the conference, regional, and national levels. Cain was a two-time All-American, receiving honors in 2002 (Football Gazette Honorable Mention) and 2003 (Don Hansen Football Gazette Third Team and D2Football.com Honorable Mention). He was also a two-time All-Region selection, highlighted by a unanimous First Team nod in 2003 from Daktronics, Football Gazette, and D2Football.com, following a Second Team selection by Football Gazette in 2002. Additionally, Cain was a two-time First-Team All-IFL selection in both 2002 and 2003 and earned Honorable Mention All-ECAC recognition as a senior. 

Cain's legacy is further cemented by a historic distinction: he became the first All-American in Gannon football history during the scholarship era. 

Beyond the statistics and accolades, Cain exemplified what it meant to be a Golden Knight. A four-year starting tight end, he combined toughness and reliability with strong academic performance, graduating with a GPA above 3.0. 

Cain's impact has extended well beyond his playing days. Following his collegiate career, he returned to his hometown of New Castle, Pennsylvania, where he devoted himself to education and service. For 15 years, he worked as an emotional support teacher for students with special needs, a role he has often described as the most rewarding work of his life. He currently serves as the Dean of Students at George Washington Middle School in New Castle, continuing his commitment to leadership and mentorship. In addition, Cain has coached high school football for 13 years and eighth-grade basketball for nine, influencing countless young athletes through sport and example.