Barry Schmitt was a 4 year varsity letterwinner and a 1979 graduate of Athens High School. Barry wrestled 112 lbs as a Sophomore in 1977 which was an integral part of the future success of Athens Wrestling history in which Athen’s crowned its first State Champion in Pat Switlick and won its first conference Team title that sparked a 20 year Marawood conference championship winning streak. Barry was a Sectional qualifier and Conference runner up as a Junior at 126 lbs. That season Athens went undefeated as a team. Senior year, Barry was a Marawood conference champion at 145 lbs. Barry continued his wrestling career at UW Eau Claire and was a National qualifier in 1982. After college, he continued to follow in his passion for wrestling by officiating and coaching at Independence High School since 1985. Barry retired from his Superintendent/Principal position at Independence High School, however Barry was asked to come out of retirement this season to return as coach of the Indees.