NEW YORK - Carl Fronhofer, an assistant coach with the wrestling program the last three years, has been named Columbia's new Andrew F. Barth Head Coach of Wrestling, Dr. M. Dianne Murphy, Director, Intercollegiate Athletics and Physical Education announced today.

"I am thrilled we were able to promote Carl.  He is an excellent leader and teacher, who has mentored and coached some of our top wrestlers in the upper weight classes over the past three years," Murphy said.  "He is an outstanding recruiter who understands Columbia and The Ivy League.  Most importantly, Carl has built strong relationships with our wrestling student-athletes and alumni over the past few years. He was a natural and perfect fit."

Fronhofer, a former All-American at the University of Pittsburgh, came to Columbia in August 2008 after two seasons as the top assistant at Bloomsburg University. Prior to his time with the Huskies, Fronhofer spent three seasons as an assistant coach at his alma mater, the University of Pittsburgh. During his coaching tenure, Fronhofer helped coach five of his student-athletes to All-American honors.

"I am truly privileged to have the opportunity to lead the Columbia Wrestling program," said Fronhofer.  "I look forward to continued success, and that success begins now.  I'm extremely excited to begin July recruiting.  It is going to be a great summer."

Fronhofer accumulated a record of 123-39 while wrestling for Pitt, ranking third in the Panthers' record book for wins. During that span, Fronhofer qualified for the NCAA Championships each of his four years.

He capped his illustrious career by earning All-America honors as a senior, after reaching the NCAA finals at 174 pounds. By doing so, he became the first All-American for the Panthers in three years, and was the first NCAA finalist for the program in 13 years. That same season, Fronhofer was named Academic All-American, and the 2003 Eastern Wrestling League Wrestler of the Year.