Coach Patricia “Hattie” Hatmaker was a pioneer in the sport of gymnastics, leaving her mark at the local, state, and national levels over a career spanning more than 35 years. A dedicated teacher, coach, and mentor, she served as a role model for countless students and athletes.

Hatmaker began her teaching career in 1963 at Issaquah Junior High as a physical education instructor, moving into gymnastics shortly thereafter. In 1967, she became the head girls’ gymnastics coach, and by 1975 she was leading the Issaquah High School program, where she also coached National Team members. Every year she served as head coach, Hatmaker guided either a team or individual athletes to the state championships. In addition to gymnastics, she also coached volleyball and track, further showcasing her versatility and commitment to student athletics.

Beyond coaching, Hatmaker helped shape the sport itself. She was a founding member of the Northwest Gymnastics Judges Association in 1972 and went on to receive some of the highest honors in her field. She was named Washington State Gymnastics Association Coach of the Year in 1996–97 and inducted into its Coaches Hall of Fame in 1998. In 2002, she earned national recognition when she was inducted into the inaugural class of the United States Association of Gymnastics Coaches Hall of Fame.

Her influence extended well beyond athletics. At Issaquah High School, Hatmaker was actively involved with students as an ASB class advisor and as a mentor for student coaches. She was honored as the district’s Teacher of the Year in 1995–96, a testament to the impact she made both in and out of the gym.