The new athletic director at Fresno City College began his duties on June 22 after his appointment was approved by the State Center Community College District Board of Trustees.

Eric Swain, 50, worked in Clovis Unified for a decade. “In my 10 years, I got a chance to meet most of the coaches here through administrations and teaching,” Swain said.

Swain has built a trust with the athletic staff through his time in California. Head football coach Tony Caviglia’s children attended Buchanan High, and Ed Madec, the head basketball coach had coached his son.

“At first I didn’t think I was qualified,” Swain said. “So I’m happily surprised and excited that I’m the guy for this position.”

Swain brings more than 20 years of coaching and teaching experience to a position that has been in flux since the retirement of long-time athletic director Susan Yates.

Swain also wants to maintain the family atmosphere that’s widely associated with the FCC athletic program.

“I think it’s easy because that’s what I‘ve always believed in especially as a head coach,” Swain said. “I think relationships and communication is key with not only the coaches but the players.”

Swain knows it’s an awfully challenging goal, with 23 sports and more than 500 athletes.

Swain has set a few goals this year, and with hard work and communication, he knows he can succeed.

“I think the No. 1 goal is to support the coaches and athletes. I think to do that is with banners and curb appeal,” Swain said. “I would love to get some color here, pictures of former athletes.

That’s a huge goal of mine, to celebrate the tradition we have.”

Swain and his wife, Kelly, live in Clovis and have two children, Ryan, 21 and Sienna, 17.

“My wife and family have always been huge supporters, from moving here from Reno to Clovis,” Swain said. “The first day we moved here was the first day we had ever been to Clovis.”

Swain was born in Wellsville, New York and graduated from Carson High School in Carson City, Nevada.

He spent the last 10 years at Buchanan High School as the director of the boys basketball team, as well as the learning and athletic director. He was also the deputy principal.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in general studies from the University of Nevada, Reno and a master’s degree in education, administrative and supervision option from California State University, Fresno.