Blackburn Names Tim McGuire Head Men's Wrestling Coach

CARLINVILLE, IL -- Blackburn College has officially named Tim McGuire as its Head Men's Wrestling Coach, marking a bold beginning for the program. This appointment is supported by the leadership of Blackburn's new president, Larry Lee—a former wrestler, coach, and athletic director with a strong wrestling family legacy.  Together, they share a powerful vision: to build a nationally respected, championship-caliber wrestling program at Blackburn. "This is more than just hiring a coach—it's a shift in the entire culture of our program," said Blackburn Athletic Director Kim Camara-Harvey. "Wrestling has tremendous potential at Blackburn, and Coach McGuire brings the passion, experience, and vision we need to realize that potential. We're excited about the future, and we believe the wrestling community will be too."

Coach McGuire brings a combination of experience, vision, and proven results. Most recently, he launched and led the inaugural wrestling program at Shenandoah University (NCAA Division III), where he built facilities, founded the Shenandoah Regional Training Center (RTC), established recruiting pipelines, and hosted the first-ever ODAC Championship. He also coached at the University of Chicago—earning two UAA Coaching Staff of the Year honors—and at Wilbur Wright College, where he assembled one of the nation's top NJCAA recruiting classes.

Before coaching, McGuire competed at the NCAA Division I level for Marquette University wrestling at 141 pounds, competing under Hall of Fame coach Jim Schmitz.  He would go on to earn a Bachelor of Art and Sciences in Political Science. His experience as a student-athlete at the highest level continues to shape his leadership and athlete-centered approach.

"I'm excited about the opportunity to build a new wrestling program at Blackburn College. The Build has begun, and we are going to be a strong, desirable & winning program.  I chose Blackburn due to the support of our strong administration; from President Lee's office, Athletic Director Camara-Harvey's office and fellow coaches. Blackburn is ready to fully support wrestling," Coach McGuire said. "I'm also very happy to be moving back closer to my family. Throughout my life, my wrestling successes have been due to their support. Carlinville is a beautiful town. My wife and I are looking forward to becoming involved in our community"