Fan of the week: Chef Robert Swanagan

This week's fan of the week is Robert Swanagan, one of Mercer's favorite chefs. Many Mercer students know him as Mr. Robert, who can often be found in the caf working the grill.

Although many students know and see him daily, they may not know that he is a Mercer Athletics super fan. He is one of the most cheerful and reliable fans at all Mercer sporting events.

Since he began working at Mercer, he has been a dedicated and loyal fan of all Mercer Athletics. Swanagan has made a conscious effort to support athletics consistently. In his four years at Mercer, his attendance to various sporting events has been excellent.

It is not rare to see him at sporting events, cheering on the teams and even wearing his Mercer gear. Student athletes are never surprised to see him at their games. Swanagan adds, “I love coming to the games and seeing the athletes perform. Win or lose, I will always be a fan.”

In his time here, Swanagan has faithfully supported as many sports teams as he can. "Four years I have been here, four years, since October 2010, watching Mercer play,” he said.

When asked which sports are his favorite he answers with excitement," Football, basketball, soccer, and tennis," said Swanagan. "I am getting into the volleyball, but I have not gotten to see them as much. I love volleyball and I am trying to get out more to see them".

Mr. Robert is very proud of the success that Mercer’s sport teams have continued to have during his time here. He is thrilled for all the upcoming sports seasons and the opportunity to support athletics throughout the next year.

Mr. Robert enjoys most sports at Mercer, but he is especially excited for the newer Mercer sports teams. “This year, I want to see lacrosse build up because they are a new team and growing team," he said. "I am really excited for the track team, too.”

As such an avid sports fan, it is no shock that Swanagan participated in various sports while growing up. "I played football, a little bit of basketball, tennis and wrestling, and I love sports," said Swanagan. He played these sports as Red Devil while attending Owensboro High School in Owensboro, Ky. Swanagan has been a huge sport fan his whole life.

Every student athlete is constantly encouraged by Swanagan as he makes an effort to know the student athletes. Members of Mercer's athletics expect him to be a frequent fan at events all over campus.

He has worked hard to remain knowledgeable of upcoming competitions, which students are athletes and what teams they play for to ensure his superior fan hood.

His dedication does not go unnoticed, and as The Cluster's Mercer Fan of the Week, he promises, “Any free chance I get, I will be supporting Mercer in their events.”