FULL ST. ANDREWS ATHLETICS RELEASE

LAURINBURG, N.C. - Former Coker University Wrestling assistant coach Robert Parland '17, '20 has been named the head wrestling coach at St. Andrews University, announced yesterday (Wednesday, Apr. 7).

Parland has been an assistant coach for his alma mater for the past three seasons, helping guide the team to a No. 25 national ranking in 2020. Parland has also coached six national qualifiers, five All-Conference selections and one Super Region II champion. In 2019-20, the team posted a 3.65 grade point average and boasted seven National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) Scholar All-Americans.

"I want to thank Rob for all his hard work these past three years, said head wrestling coach Derrick Nelson. "It has been a privilege to have my former teammate and brother to coach by my side at our home gym. I am looking forward to watching you grow as you build your program at St. Andrews."

Parland wrestled for the Cobras from 2013-17, ranking third all-time in career wins with 51 while his 22 wins in 2014-15 are tied for seventh all-time on the single-season win list.

"Being at Coker has been some of the best years of my life,' said Parland. "From student life to coaching, the university has helped me in life more than I can give it credit for. The hardest part is leaving the family that I've been a part of since 2013. But I feel I'm ready to make moves. Thanks to the Dr. Griffin for giving me the chance to return to my Alma Mater. A special Thank you to Derrick for molding me as a coach and pushing me to be greater. And lastly, #CB."

Parland holds both a Bachelor's of Science in exercise science and a Master's of Science in college athletic administration from Coker.