Scott Swanson named 11th leader in South Carolina program history
Scott Swanson was the named the 11th coach in the USC program's 38-year history on Friday. He replaces Ben Somera, who resigned this past Dec. 1 after a four-year tenure.
"We are thrilled to announce that Scott Swanson has been hired to lead the volleyball program at the University of South Carolina," said USC athletic director Eric Hyman in a release. "Scott has had a tremendous impact in the volleyball community, working with USA Volleyball and as a head and associate head collegiate coach. His accomplishments in recruiting nationally recognized student-athletes, including three top-five classes, and his strong background in training will serve the South Carolina volleyball program well. We look forward to his leadership among our student-athletes."
Swanson comes to USC after five seasons as an assistant at national power Minnesota. Swanson was part of the staff that led the Golden Gophers to the 2009 NCAA Volleyball Championship Final Four. Minnesota made the NCAA Tournament all five years of Swanson's stay in Minneapolis.
"I think the people at South Carolina are going to find that Scott is an excellent coach," said former Minnesota coach Mike Hebert in a release. "He has all the skills. He does everything well. He's competitive, understands how to win, and no one is going to outwork him."
Swanson has also coached USA Volleyball's A-2 Junior National Team and brings four years head coaching experience to Columbia. Swanson led UTEP from 2002-05, going 21-10 in his final season before moving to Minnesota.
"I am extremely excited for the opportunity to be the next head volleyball coach at the University of South Carolina," Swanson said in a release. "It will be an honor to coach in the SEC, and I look forward to working with this team of hardworking young women very soon."