Robby Witwer’s mother, a former figure skater, taught him to skate as a young boy in Golden, Colorado. Family is important to Robby, a fourth-year political science student at the University of Georgia, and each of his family members has played a significant role in shaping his undergraduate career.
After learning to skate, Robby and his brother both pursued ice hockey in their youth, quickly falling in love with the sport. When it came time for Robby’s brother to choose a college, he picked Ole Miss. Though he enjoyed his time there, he later told Robby that the only college town better than Oxford, Mississippi, was Athens, Georgia.
Inspired by his brother’s recommendation and eager to chart his own path, Robby chose to attend the University of Georgia to pursue a degree in political science. His choice of degree was influenced by his father and paternal grandfather, both of whom served in the Colorado State Legislature. Robby fondly recalls visiting his father at the Colorado State Capitol in Denver and growing to admire his father’s dedication to public service. His interest in political science deepened at UGA, where he found his passion further ignited by major-specific courses and internships with a political consulting firm and the NRSC. Robby describes his time in Athens as a “dream come true,” citing the strong sense of community and the wealth of opportunities the city provides. He believes that here, he truly has the world at his fingertips.
Robby’s brother also introduced him to UGA’s ice hockey club team, which Robby tried out for during his freshman year. Humble about his abilities, Robby didn’t expect to make the team but was thrilled to see his name on the roster. While the team practices only two or three times a week, Robby dedicated himself to increasing the visibility of ice hockey in Athens. Over the years, he held several leadership roles, including Officer of Sponsorship and Revenue, and later, President of the Executive Board. In these positions, he helped secure an increase in the team’s operating budget and facilitated more travel opportunities. In his junior year, Head Coach John Camp selected Robby to be team captain. As captain, Robby’s duties include fostering team unity, promoting positivity on the ice, and supporting his teammates.
Though Robby will graduate in May, he considers himself a lifelong Dawg. After graduation, Robby plans to pursue a law degree at the University of Denver. Looking ahead, he envisions a career as a sports agent, potentially representing athletes like himself. “I will forever be grateful to the University of Georgia for allowing me to pursue my passions on and off the ice,” Robby says. “Thank you to my professors, coaches, teammates, and friends for such a special four years. Go Dawgs!”
