By Gary Abbott
USA Wrestling
Kyra Tirana Barry of New York, New York has been named Woman of the Year by USA Wrestling, the national governing body for wrestling in the United States. This award recognizes an outstanding woman for her contributions to the sport of wrestling.

Barry has served as the Team Leader for women’s wrestling during the 2013-2016 quadrennium, serving in this role for three World Championships and the upcoming 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. In addition to her extensive support for the Women’s National Team, she has stepped up as a leader in numerous areas in the campaign to build and grow women’s wrestling.

During the three years she has served as Team Leader, the USA has won nine World medals, including two gold medals by Adeline Gray. In the team standings, the USA won a World Team Trophy all three years, placing third at the 2013, 2014 and 2015 World Championships. She has worked closely with National Women’s Coach Terry Steiner and his staff, along with the many volunteer coaches and leaders in the program, to help support the athletes in their efforts to excel.

“To be honest, I was surprised and flattered,” said Barry about the award. “I am very excited about the sport, this team and how hard they are working. They motivate me to do what I can to help. It is humbling because I just feel like I am doing my job as the Team Leader. I am trying to support them in their efforts and serve the broader needs of women’s wrestling in the only way I know how.”

She was instrumental in the creation of Women’s Wrestling Week, which USA Wrestling has celebrated the last two years. She also helped lead USA Wrestling’s first public celebration of National Girls and Women in Sports Day in 2016.

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