HARTSVILLE, S.C. - Rob Parland '17, '18 has been named Coker University's new head wrestling coach, announced today (Wednesday, Aug. 31) by Vice President of Athletics and Athletic Facilities Dr. Lynn Griffin. 

"I am excited to welcome Rob back to Coker," said Griffin. "As a student-athlete and as an assistant coach at Coker, Rob made a positive impact on the Coker campus. This is an exciting time for Coker wrestling and I look forward to watching Coach Parland grow and continue to develop the program." 

Parland returns to Hartsville from nearby St. Andrews University, where he was the head coach for both the men's and women's wrestling programs. Prior to St. Andrews, Parland served on the Coker University wrestling coaching staff for three years as a graduate assistant. During his time on the Coker staff, Parland helped guide the Cobras to a No. 25 national ranking in 2020. He also coached six national qualifiers, five All-Conference selections and one Super Region II champion. In 2019-20, the team posted a 3.65 team grade point average and boasted seven National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) Scholar All-Americans. 

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.

"It's crazy to be back at my Alma Mater!" said Parland. "Thinking that nine years ago I decided to call this place home, and that it has now basically come full circle leaves me speechless. I hope to embrace this role passed down from my predecessors and take Coker Wrestling to new heights! Glad to be back where it all started!"

Parland holds a Bachelor's of Arts in Physical Education and a minor in Business Administration and a Master's of Science in College Athletic Administration from Coker. 

He resides in Hartsville with his fiancé Laine.