A former football student-athlete at the University of Kentucky, Coleman Barnes joined Miami’s Athletic Development Staff over the summer. He is passionate about the student-athlete experience and excited about bringing his vision to Miami.
Q: Tell us about your experience as a student-athlete.
A: I was fortunate to play football as the long-snapper at the University of Kentucky. I did not attend UK to play football but had a job as a student-worker in football recruiting during my freshman year. After building a relationship with the coaching staff and continuing to snap in my spare time, I was given an opportunity to walk on. I ultimately earned the starting job for three years, snapping on punts and kicks, and was able to play in some of the greatest atmospheres in college football. I eventually earned a scholarship for two years, and the appreciation that resulted from that is forever lasting.
Q: What do you like most about working in intercollegiate athletics?
A: My experience as a student-athlete still drives me today and helps me tell the story of how donor support really does make a difference. I am blessed to meet so many people and to hear the stories of how they became successful and why their institution is so important to them. Building relationships and helping connect passionate supporters to the future success of student-athletes keeps me motivated.
Q: What about Miami Athletics appealed to you?
A: David Sayler’s vision is extraordinary. With the projects he has identified as priorities, I knew I would have a chance to connect alumni and friends with opportunities that will be difference makers and ultimately take Miami Athletics to the next level. Miami is also one of America's most outstanding public institutions, and the overall beauty of the campus and being able to once again live in a college town was appealing. Lastly, the quality of life and genuinely nice people helped make this an easy decision for my family and career.
Q: What are your short-terms goals at Miami?
A: “My goal is to meet as many alumni and friends as possible, promoting the vision of the athletic department and helping involve them in that vision. We will also be launching some new programs that will hopefully enhance our alumni and friends' interest in funding scholarships for Miami student-athletes. Our ultimate objective is an enhanced student-athlete experience and more championships.
Q: Where does the Red & White Club fit in the overall vision for Miami Athletics?
A: The Red & White Club is the foundation of everything we do. Generating revenues to support scholarships provides opportunities to a number of student-athletes who otherwise may have not had the opportunity to attend college. As the Red & White Club prospers, so does the continued success of each of our athletics programs and the student-athletes we graduate from those programs.