Rider University Athletics mourns the passing of former wrestling head coach and athletic trainer Barry Burtnett. Burtnett was 86 years old. 

Burtnett founded the varsity wrestling program at Rider and coached the Broncs for 10 years, nine on the varsity level (1968-1978) after a year on the club level, and compiled a record of (94 wins, 39 losses, 2 ties). His Broncs won the MAC Championship in 1972-73. His 1973-74 team went 15-0-1, to this day the only Rider wrestling team to go undefeated.

"Our sincere condolences to his wife, Judy, his three children and his six grandchildren," said Rider Wrestling Head Coach John Hangey. "As the first coach in our program's history, Barry was a true pioneer and visionary. He laid the foundation of Rider Wrestling with integrity, passion and purpose, a legacy that continues to guide and inspire us every day. He remains deeply beloved by the athletes he coached and is forever part of this program."
 
Burtnett coached 14 individual conference champions in nine seasons.
 
After retiring from coaching at Rider he became Rider's first full-time athletic trainer.
 
A memorial service will be held on February 28, 2026 at Rider University. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Rider University Wrestling Program.