Swaney is new Dixon coach

"I thought it would be cool to be head coach here at Dixon," he said. "But I never thought it would happen."

Swaney's dream has become a reality as he has replaced Dal Tomlinson as coach of the Bulldogs' football program.

"I'm glad the school and administration gave me the opportunity. There was other well-qualified staff," Swaney said. "I think it's pretty humbling and I am looking forward to the experience."

Tomlinson, Dixon's coach for two years, relinquished his position late last week, opening the door for Swaney to take over a team that has made progress in recent years. Swaney, a 1996 graduate of Dixon, inherits the Bulldogs' helm after spending the previous two seasons as Dixon's defensive coordinator.

"I have enjoyed working with the kids," the 31-year old Swaney said. "They have been excited about the program the past two years, and a lot of it has to do with Dal.

"I just hope to keep it rolling."

Dixon athletic director Homer Spring believes Swaney will do a good job.

"We think Ray is an excellent choice for the job," he said. "We are very optimistic."

It doesn't hurt that Swaney is also a former Dixon player who also went on to play for Chowan.

"It means a great deal to me," Swaney said of his ties to the area. "This is a wonderful community that is supportive."

Swaney will take over a squad that last year went 4-8 overall and fell to Camden 28-19 in the first round of the NCHSAA 1-AA playoffs. The previous season saw Dixon go 2-10.

"All of the coaches have stayed in place," Swaney said. "I have a great staff and a great group of guys to work with."

And while Swaney has a defensive background, he said that he is not just looking for that side of the ball to be productive.

"I'm not the type of guy that just develops defense," he said. "I would rather be well-rounded than just one sided."