Photo Courtesy of Susquehanna Athletics/Brandon Love
By Abrielle Tutino
Editor’s Note: This story is the beginning of The Quill’s series titled “Field to sidelines”, telling the stories of recent Susquehanna graduates who are now coaching at SU and beyond.
Drew Robinson stepped onto the field this fall wearing a new title but carrying the same River Hawk pride.
Just months after finishing his career as a linebacker for Susquehanna, Robinson is back in Selinsgrove as the football team’s inside linebackers’ coach.
It’s a full-circle moment for the native of Hillside, New Jersey. SU head coach Tom Perkovich announced his return in the summer, bringing back a 2024 alum who knows the program inside and out. Robinson traded in the captain’s band for a whistle, with the same leadership and energy that defined him as a player.
During his time on the field, Robinson put together an impressive career. He racked up 242 tackles, including a career-high 72 in 2023, along with nine forced fumbles, seven sacks and four interceptions. He was first team All-Landmark in 2023 and 2024 and earned All-Centennial honorable mention in 2022.
But when asked about his best moment as a River Hawk, Robinson didn’t point to stats or personal accolades.
“There’s a lot of speculation of what was the best moment in my time as a player here at Susquehanna,” he said. “My answer is [the] Johns Hopkins [game in the] 2022 season where we went on to be the conference champions. Everything about that day was exhilarating. I choose this moment because that season as a whole was one of the turning points in our program.”
During his time on the team, the River Hawks won three consecutive conference titles and made a run to the NCAA Division III semifinals last season. The win against Hopkins all but secured the first of those three titles.
Making the switch from player to coach in the same year hasn’t been simple. Most players on SU’s roster still remember Robinson as a teammate rather than as an authority figure.
“The biggest adjustment would have to be the relationship changes from what were once my teammates, to what are now my players,” he said.
Now, Robinson is focused on helping his linebackers learn from his own experiences.
“I hope to teach my linebackers this season to not make the same mistakes that I have made as a player and student,” he said. “I am a guide to help them push past those obstacles and grow ultimately.”
Recent graduates jumping onto coaching staff isn’t uncommon. However, Susquehanna’s recent success could open doors for the 2024 graduate.
“It means the world,” Robinson said of coaching at SU. “I love this program and everything about it. It’s something that means a lot to me to get the chance to play a part in a bigger role in Susquehanna football.”
As Robinson’s coaching career begins where his playing career ended, his story reflects the culture of Susquehanna football. From captain to coach, he’s still a cornerstone of the program and is now teaching the next wave of River Hawks how to leave their own mark.