Barton Wrestling adds decorated former wrestler Colby Crank to coaching staff

The Barton Community College wrestling program has added decorated former wrestler Colby Crank to its coaching staff as recently approved by the College's Board of Trustees.

A four-time NAIA All-American and 2016 National Champion to earn the KWCA Senior College Wrestler of Year award, the former team captain adds another level of commitment to excellence for the Cougars on and off the mat.

"Colby is an outstanding addition to the Barton Wrestling program," said Head Coach Mike Bammes. "He has Kansas ties, a collegiate wrestling background including being an All-American and national champion, and also got it done in the classroom being a four-time academic All-American.  Add in his experience of coaching at a high level, Colby will be a major asset to our program in helping our athletes succeed on and off the mat."

Wrestling for the Swedes of Bethany College his first three seasons, Crank moved on to Baker University in capping his final season of competition as one of just three Wildcats to win the national crown and lead Baker to its highest national finish.  Obtaining a double major in business management and psychology from Baker, Crank excelled off the mat as well as a four-time academic All-American and a two-time academic national finalist.

A native of Hutchinson, Kansas, Crank was also a high school three-time Kansas placer including a two-time finalist and capturing the title his senior year.

Spending last season as an assistant at Baker, Crank helped coach the team to a Top-4 finish at National Duals, had six national qualifiers, and helped two athletes reach All-American status.