Air Force Wrestling Feature: The Next Chapter
2/4/2025 2:55:00 PM | Wrestling
The Falcon wrestling program under the guidance of Head Coach Sam Barber is proud to present The Next Chapter: A mission first, values-based vision for USAFA Wrestling as the Warrior Capital of the World.
"As the Head Coach of the United States Air Force Academy Wrestling Program, it is an honor and a responsibility to continue building on the strong tradition of excellence established by former coaches Karl Kit and Wayne Baughman. Their leadership set a high standard both on and off the mat, exemplifying what it means to pursue athletic excellence while fostering the growth and development of our nation's future leaders.
Today, our program remains steadfast in its commitment to these core values. We aim to develop resilient leaders of character who will serve as warfighters, leaders, and critical thinkers aligned with the Academy's mission. Wrestling teaches our cadets to adapt, overcome adversity, and excel under pressure—skills vital to their future roles in the Air Force, Space Force, and beyond.
We also recognize the ever-evolving complexities of modern athletics. To meet these complexities, we must continue to run an organized, disciplined, and adaptive program that is results-driven. Our ability to embrace change and navigate
uncertainty, while maintaining our commitment to excellence, will be the key to maintaining competitiveness.
Our unwavering focus is clear: to graduate leaders of character who are prepared to win as warfighters, leaders, and adaptable thinkers. At the same time, we will ensure that our wrestling program remains competitive for future generations of Fighting Falcons.
Together, we will rise to the challenge and ensure the enduring success of the Air Force Academy Wrestling Program for years to come."
-Head Coach Sam Barber
U.S. Air Force Academy Wrestling
"As the Head Coach of the United States Air Force Academy Wrestling Program, it is an honor and a responsibility to continue building on the strong tradition of excellence established by former coaches Karl Kit and Wayne Baughman. Their leadership set a high standard both on and off the mat, exemplifying what it means to pursue athletic excellence while fostering the growth and development of our nation's future leaders.
Today, our program remains steadfast in its commitment to these core values. We aim to develop resilient leaders of character who will serve as warfighters, leaders, and critical thinkers aligned with the Academy's mission. Wrestling teaches our cadets to adapt, overcome adversity, and excel under pressure—skills vital to their future roles in the Air Force, Space Force, and beyond.
We also recognize the ever-evolving complexities of modern athletics. To meet these complexities, we must continue to run an organized, disciplined, and adaptive program that is results-driven. Our ability to embrace change and navigate
uncertainty, while maintaining our commitment to excellence, will be the key to maintaining competitiveness.
Our unwavering focus is clear: to graduate leaders of character who are prepared to win as warfighters, leaders, and adaptable thinkers. At the same time, we will ensure that our wrestling program remains competitive for future generations of Fighting Falcons.
Together, we will rise to the challenge and ensure the enduring success of the Air Force Academy Wrestling Program for years to come."
-Head Coach Sam Barber
U.S. Air Force Academy Wrestling
Sam Barber Interview - February 3rd, 2026
Tuesday, February 03
Sam Barber Interview - January 27th, 2026
Tuesday, January 27
Sam Barber Interview January 20, 2026
Tuesday, January 20
Sam Barber Interview - January 13th, 2026
Tuesday, January 13
