The dictionary defines the word Coda…as the concluding passage of a piece or movement, typically forming an addition to the basic structure. And for Coda Barnoski, it’s the opportunity of continuing a winning way in his senior season playing football for the Muskogee Roughers.
During his freshman and sophomore seasons, Barnoski was listed on the roster as the backup quarterback at 5-11 and weighing a mere 150 pounds. After exchanging the number 12 jersey for his current day number-9 and making the move to the defensive roster at linebacker, the senior linebacker, who now stands 6-2 and tips the scale weighing 220 pounds, will conclude his high school career with more than 300 tackles.
“My freshman year, the first time I went into the game I was so nervous. I fumbled the snap that resulted in giving up a field goal and we lost a shutout. The next time when Byrd (Ficklin) got hurt and coaches threw me into the game, I had to tell myself to calm down and do what you do. We went down and scored.”
The end result of a complete body makeover by a commitment to following the Roughers strength and conditioning game plan, Barnoski eagerly looks for the opportunity to making contact and leaving his mark on Muskogee opponents.
“My freshman year, my max on the bench was maybe135 pounds,” Coda said with a laugh. “Now, it’s around 265 on the bench lift and I can squat 440 pounds. The added strength has made me stronger and helped me become a better player with added confidence for sure.”
Another part of the makeover may or may not have come from his favorite foods while enjoy a wide variety of music including a playlist that includes old time country artists George Strait and Alan Jackson.
“I really like my aunt’s chicken and cornbread and if you’re talking desserts, I’ll always choose rocky road ice cream.”
After winning the 6A-II state title during his sophomore season and runner-up finish in 2024, the Roughers linebacker wants to leave his legacy helping to write another championship chapter to Rougher football. Talk to any his teammates and they’ll confirm that Coda Barnoski is a leader who is focused on achieving winning results.
“I strive to be a leader, set the example for my teammates to follow, said Barnoski. “I try to be a caring individual who is strong-minded; someone that if he wants to do something, he’s going to do it and get it done right. When the Friday night lights come on, I’m going to fly around and hit somebody.”
