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Coldwater senior Will Barry, center, will attend Ohio Dominican University and play football for the Panthers. Seated with Will are his parents Dan and Kelly Barry.
Will Barry showed his prowess as a two-way lineman for Coldwater.
Ohio Dominican Univrsity thinks he could put his talent to use at a new position.
The Cavalier All-Ohio standout will head to the NCAA Division II program in Columbus with a new mission: to become a tight end.
"Once I got there, I wasn't expecting much," said Barry, who will major in computer science. "I got pulled into (head coach Kelly Cummings') office and they were telling me they wanted me to play tight end. I usually play tackle. They told me how athletic I am and how I would be a great fit for their team. I respected what he said, and he gave me some good money to play there, so I am excited."
Barry believes he can make the transition.
"With my build being 6-4 and 220 (pounds), I feel not only can I get off the line and get some good blocks, but also get set to catch some passes," said Barry
The Panthers, playing in the Great Midwest Athletic Conference, went 4-7 overall last season and 3-6 in the G-MAC.
"I'm very excited for the opportunity they gave me. I really hope I can make the best of it."
Playing tackle, Barry provided key blocking to a team that averaged 39.5 points per game and recorded over 5,400 yards of total offense in going 16-1 and winning the Division VI state championship and first since 2020. Playing defense as an end, Barry ranked third on the team with 82 tackles, led the team with 20 tackles for loss and six sacks and recovered a fumble.
Barry was a first team All-MAC selection at both tackle and defensive end, co-Lineman of the Year in Division VI by the Ohio Prep Sports Media Association Northwest Board and second-team All-Ohio at defensive line.
"What I've learned at Coldwater is the amount of discipline needed to play," said Barry. "The amount of discipline, toughness and effort you need to play football, especially at the Division II level, you're going to need everything you get from Coldwater to get there.
"I'm really excited to bring the Coldwater legacy to Ohio Dominican."
