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University of the Ozarks

University of The Ozarks Athletics

Men’s Coach Barber Tabbed To Lead Women’s Program As Well

Vinny Barber is the new head women's wrestling coach while remaining the head men's coach.
Posted: Apr 12, 2023

Clarksville, Ark.-Vinny Barber '19 will take over the women's wrestling program as head coach while remaining the men's head coach, it was announced by University of the Ozarks athletic director Jimmy Clark Wednesday (April 12).
     
Barber's appointment as head women's coach will begin immediately.

"Vinny has a great vision for building upon the successes of our women's program," said Clark. "He is a tremendous recruiter and a dynamic coach who is passionate about collegiate wrestling. He understands the valuable lessons the sport of wrestling offers young women. We look forward to the growth of the women's program under his leadership."

The women's team just wrapped up its most successful season in program history earning a national ranking and qualifying one wrestler to the National Championships.  

"I am really excited for the opportunity to take over the women's program and oversee the whole wrestling program here," said Barber. "The emergence of women's wrestling into the NCAA is historic and an amazing opportunity to be a part of. Having both teams working together towards a common goal of being great is exciting. There is no better place for these women and men to work towards that goal than at Ozarks. The support from our local community, student body, faculty and staff are really what will allow our student-athletes the best opportunity at greatness."

Barber was promoted to head men's coach in August. Prior to that, he served as the assistant coach for four years, helping two Eagles to the NCAA III National Championships.

"I want to thank President Dunsworth, Amy Lloyd and Jimmy for their continued support for our program and for entrusting me with the future successes of the wrestling programs at the University."

A native of Highland, New York, Barber wrestled collegiately at SUNY Oneonta and Centenary College (New Jersey). He graduated from Ozarks in 2019 with a bachelor's degree in communication studies.

Barber replaces Charlotte Fowler, who resigned as head women's coach last week to pursue her wrestling career.