Richard Barron, University of Maine special assistant to the director of athletics, has been named head coach of the men’s basketball team.
Following coach Bob Walsh’s decision to not seek a contract extension, the university moved forward with the appointment of Barron.
Effective March 5, Barron will immediately assume all head coaching responsibilities.
“The university would like to thank Bob Walsh for his hard work and dedication to the men’s basketball program,” says UMaine Director of Athletics Karlton Creech. “Coach Walsh’s teams achieved academically while showing great toughness and perseverance on the court. We wish him the best moving forward.”
UMaine President Susan J. Hunter echoed Creech’s remarks, adding her appreciation for the efforts of Walsh and his team in the past four years, and looking ahead to the next chapter in UMaine men’s basketball.
“Men’s basketball is an important part of Division I athletics at the University of Maine and in the state,” Hunter says. “We are pleased to see Richard returning to the court and we look forward to where his leadership will take UMaine men’s basketball.”
Barron has signed a five-year contract to be head coach of the men’s basketball team, effective March 5. Beginning July 1, his annual salary will be $160,000, with a $5,000 increase at the start of the second year.
Since Dec. 1, he has been serving in a seven-month appointment as special assistant to the Athletic Director. He was head coach of the women’s basketball team when he became ill in January 2017 and took a medical leave of absence.
Barron began his appointment as UMaine head coach on May 10, 2011. He guided the Black Bears to a pair of America East regular season titles and three-straight postseason appearances.
“Richard Barron has an impressive track record of success throughout his career,” says Creech. “His skill as a basketball coach is unquestioned. Richard has an incredible basketball IQ, and the ability to share that knowledge through coaching and teaching. Under his leadership, our men’s basketball student-athletes will learn and grow.
“Richard’s previous success as our women’s basketball coach makes him uniquely qualified to understand what it takes to build a program here at UMaine,” Creech says. “We are excited that Richard and his family will remain involved, valuable members of this community.”
