Ohio State’s first and only women’s hockey coach to date, Jackie Barto, retired after being at the helm of the program for 12 years.
“I had a great opportunity here at Ohio State, from (former OSU athletic director) Andy Geiger and Archie Griffin starting the program, to Gene Smith and Chris Schneider (associate athletic director — sport administration),” Barto told The Lantern. “It’s time in my career to explore new opportunities.”
Barto said she’s confident the program she helped build is set for the future.
“I am comfortable with where it’s at now and am excited to see someone come in and see the program move forward.
During her time at OSU, Barto had just five sub-.500 seasons. Her best season was the 2006–07 campaign, in which the team went 20-13-4 and made it to the Women’s Collegiate Hockey Association semifinals before losing to eventual-champion Wisconsin.
“I think what I will remember most is the first year and the joy and excitement of starting a program,” Barto said. “Those first-year gals are the ones that are the foundation of this program. That was probably my fondest memory.
Barto’s final record at OSU was 248-272-52, a .433 winning percentage.
