Former high school and college
coach to take reins

By Jody Norwood
Tribune-Courier News Editor
jnorwood@tribunecourier.com

BENTON – Marshall County High School football fans might see a familiar face on the side lines next season. Ron Barnard has been named as the new head coach of the Marshals after a successful stint as assistant head coach at Campbellsville University.

Barnard had previously filled a variety of coaching roles at Mayfield, Graves County, Mercer County and at Paducah Tilghman. Joining the Tornado in 2002, Barnard served as assistant head coach under Perry Thomas until the duo moved into like roles at Campbellsville.

“I think one of the main things we were looking for was work ethic and experience,” said MCHS athletic director Jeff Stokes. “Ron has filled that role very well. I think he’s a person that really wants to be involved in the community and I think he will get the community involved in the program.”

A Union County high School graduate, the Sturgis native attended and played football at Murray State University. Barnard also began his coaching career for the Racers, serving as tight ends coach in 1992. At Campbellsville, Barnard served as the special teams coordinator and outside linebackers coach in addition to his duties as assistant head coach.

Barnard and his wife Michelle have three children, Zach, Alyssa, and Elijah.

Coaching History
 2008-2010 - Associate Head Coach at Campbellsville University
 2002-2007 - Assistant Head Coach at Paducah Tilghman High School
 1998-2000 - Defensive Coordinator at Graves County High School
 1997-1998 - Assistant Head Football Coach at Mercer County
 1994-1997 - Defensive Coordinator at Graves County High School
 1993-1994 - Assistant Coach at Mayfield on the 1993 State
 1992-1993 – Assistant Coach at Murray State University