Paterson began his collegiate career at San Diego State University in 1987.
In 1988, he transferred to the University of Evansville where he played on the men's soccer team.
In 1989, Paterson was named a first team All American and was honored as the ISAA Player of the Year.
In 1987, Paterson joined the semi-pro San Diego Nomads of the Western Soccer Alliance.
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