MOUNT VERNON — The competition court at Ariel Arena on the campus of Mount Vernon Nazarene University will honor the longest-standing coach in the university’s history as it becomes Paul Swanson Court.
Swanson was surprised with the announcement during Homecoming Weekend when he was asked to join campus leadership on the court during halftime of the men’s basketball game with Cornerstone University.
“I have been blessed with a very long and rewarding time here at MVNU. I know that God has richly blessed our program,” Swanson said. “The Lord has caused the right players at the right time to come to MVNU. It is our desire to keep Christ at the center of everything we do, and the Lord has rewarded and blessed us.”
In his 35 years as volleyball coach at MVNU, Swanson built an impressive win-loss record while proving himself a valuable mentor to his players both on and off the court, the university noted in a press release.
“His wins are just part of his success,” said Tracy Waal, vice president of student life. “But, it is the combination of his ability to coach players, invest in them — character development — that is why we want his name on the floor.”
“It was a joy to see so many alums come to this event. Each alum is a special blessing in their own way,” Swanson said.
Swanson paid tribute to his family, including his wife, Sue, and sons, Casey, Brady and Riley, for their own dedication to the program.
“Coaching is not a family friendly job, so to have my family there for this unique honor meant everything. They have sacrificed so much,” Swanson said.
Travis Keller, director of alumni relations, also lauded Swanson during the ceremony.
“For his loyalty, commitment, dedication, demeanor, positively and servanthood, for his gentle and patient spirit, for the impact made on the lives of so many students, players, faculty, staff, family and friends; and for a life that reflects the love of God, to you, Paul, we say ‘thank you,’ ” Keller said.
