The Citadel head coach Maurice Drayton holds Clemson’s Dabo Swinney in the highest regard, crediting him for a moment of personal kindness that left a lasting impression.
Drayton recalled his time as an assistant at Coastal Carolina when he brought his son Montrel, who was battling heart issues, to visit Clemson. Swinney and his staff welcomed them with open arms, creating a memory Drayton cherishes to this day. Montrel even participated in the Tigers’ post-practice team breakdown, a gesture that meant the world to the Drayton family.
Drayton emphasized how Swinney’s warmth and genuine character stood out, recounting how Swinney still refers to him as “Montrel’s dad.” This deeply personal connection fuels Drayton’s unwavering support for the Clemson coach. “You better not say anything bad about Dabo around me,” Drayton said passionately. It’s clear that for Drayton, Swinney’s leadership transcends football, rooted in compassion and authenticity.
The Citadel coach also highlighted how these values translate into Swinney’s approach to the game. As Clemson gears up to face The Citadel, Drayton doesn’t view Swinney merely as an opposing coach but as a person who embodies the best qualities of mentorship and humanity. These shared experiences reflect how coaching can leave a meaningful impact far beyond the field.