NFL Hall-of-Famer Lynn Swann ’70 was honored at his alma mater on December 14 by the Hometown Hall of Famers program, sponsored by the Pro Football Hall of Fame and Allstate. The charismatic Swann talked about his career, the importance of giving back, and how Serra shaped his life. He was joined by his parents, godparents and friends.

“The Serra community was truly excited to have Lynn Swann back on campus,” said Serra President Lars Lund. “He is a successful alumnus not only because of his accomplishments in the NFL, but also because of his many contributions to civic life. The message he gave to our students was ‘What it means to be a good man.’ Lynn is someone who has used his talents and abilities to make a difference in the lives of others. His speech was truly inspiring for students and teachers alike.”

Swann was a member the four-time Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers football team, and the MVP of Super Bowl X. He also was a member of the 1972 USC Trojans national championship football team. During the assembly, San Mateo Allstate agent Michael Glazer presented Swann with a replica of his plaque to his alma mater that was put on permanent display in 2001 at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. Assemblyman Kevin Mullin's representative, Joe Fazio, honored Swann with a state resolution. San Mateo Councilwoman Maureen Freschet, a graduate of Notre Dame High School, remembered Swann from her high school days and presented him with a city proclamation. Finally, Serra Student Body President Ray Whelan surprised Swann with a Serra jacket.

“It was so cool to see Lynn Swann,” said Serra sophomore Paul Smoot. “He showed us that hard work can get you to where you want to go, but he was also very humble about it. I really liked his speech.”

Humble indeed, and quite a class act. When Swann was called a "hometown hero," he deflected the title by honoring his ballet instructor, Les Williams. "He is the real hometown hero," Swann noted, referring to Williams' illustrious military career. Williams is an original member of the Tuskegee Airmen.

"I have always had such respect for Lynn Swann," Williams said. "He stayed with me for a long time. When I think of Lynn, I think of the word 'spectacular.' Lynn has been spectacular in every aspect of his life. I am very proud of him."

Swann pointed out that the years of ballet lessons helped him with his agility on the football field, and that being deemed "the Baryshnikov of the NFL" was the ultimate compliment. Swann also acknowledged the lifelong friendships he made at Serra, and spoke to today's Padres about the importance of a college-preparatory education and Christian values.

"This is the foundation you will take with you to college," Swann added. "If you don't have that foundation to make good decisions, you can lose your way. You are getting the best education here at Serra."

Swann's dad, Willie Swann, described his son as "serious, dedicated, faithful and giving."

Serra alumnus Rick Pouliot '73 remembered Swann as a high school student.

"What a good guy," he recounted. "Lynn was very friendly and always took time for people. He always treated people very well, and I always rooted for him even before he became famous!"

“Lynn showed us that our Padre traditions transcend generations,” said Serra Alumni Director Bob Greene ’85. “Our current students were born in the 1990s, but they related so well to Lynn’s message. Our beliefs and values here at Serra stand the test of time. Lynn shared how the guidance he received from his parents, as well as the structure he got at Serra, affected the rest of his life. Today, we are teaching our current Padres the same values and giving them the tools they need to succeed in life.” 

CLICK HERE for more pics!