Pat Swanson: A Football Journey from the Sidelines to Head Coach

Growing Up on the Gridiron

Pat Swanson’s life has revolved around football since his earliest days. With a father like Tim Swanson, a revered coach at Marian Catholic High School, it was almost destined that Pat would be immersed in the sport. His first appearance on the football sidelines occurred just a few weeks after his birth, marking the beginning of a lifelong affair with the game. From serving as a ballboy to becoming a talented athlete in both high school and college, Pat’s journey through the ranks has uniquely prepared him for his current role.

A Dream Fulfilled

In January, Pat Swanson was appointed head coach of the St. Laurence football program—a position he described as a dream come true. He took over from Adam Nissen, who had a commendable record of 35-28 over six seasons, including a thrilling Class 4A state runner-up finish in 2023. Swanson expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I’m pumped beyond belief to be here. We have a lot of work to do, but we have a great staff in place, and the kids have bought in, which has been great.” The excitement surrounding his appointment is palpable, fueled by hopes of revitalizing the team’s legacy.

An Impressive Coaching Background

Before joining St. Laurence, Swanson spent three successful years as the defensive backs coach at Mt. Carmel, where he contributed to three straight Class 7A state championships. His coaching resume also includes experiences at his alma mater, Wisconsin-Platteville, and further stints at North Dakota University and Northern Illinois University. “I had some great mentors who I’d played for who helped me get a foot in the door in the right places,” Swanson reflected on his smooth transition into coaching, a path he always knew he would follow.

A Winning Mindset

At Mt. Carmel, Swanson cultivated a winning mentality that he aims to instill at St. Laurence. “We were always the toughest team on the field,” he emphasized. For him, physical toughness often outweighs sheer talent, a philosophy he hopes will define the Vikings this season. Swanson recognizes the importance of fortifying the team’s identity through both physical preparation and mental resilience, setting the stage for a formidable presence on the field.

Setting the Bar for Performance

Swanson envisions his team adopting a run-first offense complemented by a strategic passing attack. His defensive strategy revolves around instilling toughness and energy, principles he believes will define the Vikings’ gameplay. “If you can run the ball, it’s death by a thousand cuts,” he articulated, outlining his approach to maintaining control of the game. His eyes are set on perfecting the run-pass option, harnessing the team’s strengths while actively working on areas requiring improvement.

Building a Culture of Success

Transitioning from one coaching staff to another presents its own unique set of challenges and opportunities. Swanson understands the importance of fostering a culture that emphasizes hard work and accountability. “The previous coaches did a great job, but it’s a different staff now,” he acknowledged. By getting players to buy into the new system during the early days, he believes the groundwork can be laid for sustained success. His focus on building depth and readiness positions the team for growth as they aim for the next competitive season.

Recognizing Talent in Youth

As he prepares the Vikings for their upcoming games, Swanson remains optimistic about the potential within his roster. “We have a lot of young guys who are unproven right now. That’s a good thing. They’re very talented,” he maintains. With promising playmakers emerging in the sophomore class, Swanson sees a bright future for the program. He emphasizes the importance of senior leadership in navigating the season’s challenges while molding the younger players into impactful team members.

Community and Leadership Support

St. Laurence Athletic Director Tim Chandler openly expressed his enthusiasm for Swanson joining the coaching staff. “I am thrilled to welcome Coach Swanson to the St. Laurence Family,” he stated in a recent release. Chandler noted Swanson’s maturity, drive, and well-laid plans to elevate the football program, showcasing the administration’s confidence in his potential to lead.

Looking Ahead to the Season

With the season set to kick off on August 29 against King, Pat Swanson is poised to tackle his first year as head coach with vigor. “It’s going to be a good year,” he affirmed, emphasizing his willingness to celebrate any victory—no matter how small. His goal is clear: to drive the Vikings towards playoff contention, cultivating an environment where every player can thrive. Through sound strategies and a focus on toughness, Pat Swanson is committed to making St. Laurence football not just competitive but a force to be reckoned with.