What does it take to build a college program from zero—culture first, wins second, significance always? In this episode, Coach Vinny Barber returns (last seen in Episode 15) as the newly named Head Men’s Wrestling Coach at the University of Lynchburg to unpack the real work of starting something enduring. We talk through the vision for a state-of-the-art wrestling facility, the standards that shape day-one culture, and how to lead athletes through uncertainty with clarity, humility, and edge.

Vinny reflects on lessons from the University of the Ozarks—including NWCA Academic All-Americans, NCAA DIII qualifiers, conference champions, and a 2024 team title—and how those experiences inform everything from staff hiring to practice design to athlete development. We also explore his time with River Valley Wrestling Club and FloWrestling, and why storytelling and systems both matter when you’re building a program meant to last.

🎯 If you’re a coach, AD, or parent who cares about process over hype and character over shortcuts, this one’s for you.
👀 And don’t miss Part 2, where we go deep on recruiting: communication, evaluation, and building Lynchburg’s first roster.

Learn more about Coach Barber: lynchburgsports.com/staff-directory/vinny-barber/363

Explore podcasts, weekly blogs, Significant Recruiting books, Launchpad classes, and speaking: coachmattrogers.com

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