Lynn Swann Named Athletic Director at USC

The University of Southern California announced today that Gold Jacket Lynn Swann will return to his alma mater to serve as the Trojan’s next athletic director. The former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver will begin his new role on July 1, 2016.

"Couldn’t be happier for Lynn and USC," shared Pro Football Hall of Fame President David Baker. "It takes something special to be a Trojan and Lynn Swann is not only a Hall of Famer, but a Hall of Fame Trojan. We wish him the best. Fight on Lynn Fight on USC."
 
Swann earned his bachelor’s degree in public relations and played football for the University from 1971-73. He helped lead the Trojans to two Rose Bowl appearances and win a National Championship game. He was named All-American in 1973.
 
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Swann even helped form traditions at USC that still stands today. One day after petitioning the band director, Swann was given the opportunity on a Friday after football practice to direct the school’s famous marching band. Swann never relinquished the role and continued to lead the marching band in USC's battle cry "Conquest!" every Friday before a game until he graduated.

That tradition developed since the Gold Jacket left the university. Now after every home game, a football captain grabs the mascot’s sword and directs the marching band in “Conquest” in front of the student section.  Listen to Swann explain the full story below.
 

Swann was the Steelers’ No. 1 draft pick and 21st player selected overall in the 1974 NFL Draft. He joined the Steelers just as they were embarking on a winning binge that produced six straight AFC Central Division titles and four Super Bowl championships in six years.
 
The Gold Jacket finished his career with 336 receptions for 5,462 yards and 51 touchdowns. His combined total of 364 receiving yards in four games ranked first in Super Bowl history at the time of his retirement.
 
Named All-Pro in 1975, 1977, and 1978, Swann was also voted to the Pro Bowl after each of those seasons. One of the most exciting players of his time, Swann was named to the NFL’s All-Decade Team of the 1970s, and to the Super Bowl Silver Anniversary Team.

Swann was Enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2001.