Patterson was born in the rural town of
Gatton, Queensland to an
Australian father and an
Indonesian mother. It is believed that he is also of
Indigenous Australian descent from his paternal grandfather, but his background has not yet been confirmed. Patterson spent the early years of his life in Gatton before relocating to
Bribie Island for several years and ultimately settled on the
Gold Coast where he attended renowned sporting school
Palm Beach Currumbin State High School. He played the majority of his junior football at
Palm Beach Currumbin and was placed in the
Gold Coast Suns academy program at 13 years of age. Along with
Australian rules football, Patterson also played junior
rugby league at a high level and received contract offers from four professional
NRL clubs as a 15-year-old, but would ultimately reject the offers to pursue a career as an
AFL player. In May 2023, a 15-year-old Patterson made his senior
QAFL debut for Palm Beach Currumbin and was voted best on ground in his first game. He was also selected to participate in the 2023 Under-16 National Championships and was named in the All-Australian team for his eye-catching performances. In April 2024, at 16 years of age, he made his
Coates Talent League debut against the
Oakleigh Chargers and was named in the bests in a 57-point victory. In June 2024, still aged 16, Patterson made his
VFL debut against
Werribee. In April 2025, he was chosen to represent the AFL National Academy team against
Richmond's VFL team and stunned onlookers with his skills and speed. Patterson was also selected to represent the Allies at the 2025
U18 National Championships and was named in the U18 All-Australian team at the conclusion of the tournament. ==AFL career==