Induction Video(Written: June 2015)Beginning in 1947, John Barth taught and coached at UW-Platteville for nearly four decades. He was the men’s basketball coach from 1947-63 and directed the Pioneers to six conference crowns. Barth finished with a 198-146 record and his teams posted a winning record in 11 of his 17 seasons. Barth also served as head coach of the football, men’s golf and men’s tennis squads. While serving as the defensive coordinator for the football team, UW-Platteville claimed five conference titles. The 1956 defensive unit limited opponents to 48 yards total rushing per game.
He served as the director of athletics, as well as director of health and physical education from 1949-81. Barth oversaw planning and construction of all major physical education and athletic facilities.
Barth is a member of the UW-Platteville, NAIA District 14 and Wisconsin Football Coaches Association halls of fame. The John Barth Sports Complex on UW-Platteville’s campus includes the football and soccer stadium, the outdoor track and the practice fields.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in health and physical education from Ripon College (Wis.) and a master’s degree in health and physical education from UW-Madison. Barth passed away in October 2004.