Ernest (Ernie) Sparks is a 1977 graduate of Barboursville High School, where he was a three time state place winner. He went on to wrestle at Marshall University where he was a four-year starter and was named the Herd's team captain for two years. Ernie ended his career with the Herd with the most wins and the most pins in the school's history. He was named to the all Southern Conference four times and was awarded with the Marshall University Leadership award in 1981. Sparks began his coaching career in 1981 at his Alma mater, Barboursville High School, as the head coach of the Pirates. When Milton and Barboursville High Schools merged in 1984, he became the head coach of the Knights at Cabell Midland High School, then the largest school in the state. Ernie was named the Coach of the Year in 1998 by the West Virginia Athletic Coaches Association. He was also awarded the Elk's Coach of the Year in the same year. In 1998 and 2000, he had two state Runner-up teams. During his career, he produced 11 state champions and served as the president of the West Virginia Wrestling Coaches Association. Under Ernie's 27 year tenure, the Pirates and Knights had a combined record of 442 wins, 129 losses and 2 ties. Although retired from coaching Ernie is still active in many tournaments around the state. Ernie has two children. His son, Zack, is a graduate of West Liberty University with a degree in Business and Finance. His daughter, Ellen, is a Senior at Lenior Rhyne University where she is running track while working toward her college degree in Chemistery and Biology.