COACHES
Barrow Whalers Football
Christopher Battle
Head coach
From Texas Fields to Championship Glory: The Chris Battle Story
Houston's own, Chris Battle, carved his path on the gridiron at New Caney High. College saw him blaze through Navarro Community College before conquering the field at Ottawa University in Kansas. His senior year was legendary: NAIA All-America Running Back, national rushing leader (1,688 yards, 19 TDs), and Team Captain – a true force. He even dominated the track, showcasing his all-around athleticism.
​
In 2001, Chris graduated with a degree in Physical Education, ready to inspire young athletes. He returned to his high school, joining his former coach as a middle school assistant, igniting young talents from 2001 to 2005.
​
Seeking new horizons, Chris ventured to Florida, coaching at Freedom and Carrollton Day schools, before venturing further north to Barrow, Alaska, in 2009. His coaching journey took him from volunteer to paid assistant, his passion ever-present.
​
Family brought him back to Texas in 2013, but the call of coaching proved too strong. In 2015, he returned to Alaska, reclaiming his assistant role. In 2017, Chris seized the opportunity to become Head Coach, etching his name in history by leading Barrow to its first ever state championship that very year. He continues to lead the team to victory, a testament to his dedication.
​
Off the field, Chris celebrates 23 years of marriage with his wife, Wendy, and cherishes his sons, Trace (29) and Braylon (19). They call Rosenberg, Texas, home.
Chris Battle's story is one of unwavering dedication, athletic prowess, and a deep love for the game. His journey, from player to champion-maker, is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance.
​
Coaches Accolades:
2017 Coach of the Year | District Champion: 17,19
2017 All-State Coach of the Year | State Runner-up: 18,19,23
2019 Coach of the Year | Coach Battle has put six players in College
2023 All-State Coach of the Year
Andrew Downing
Defensive Coordinator
Downing has lived in many places but calls Barrow, Alaska his home now.
From 2008 to 2012, he served as a fullback on the gridiron for the University of Northern Colorado, but his competitive spirit soon found a new outlet: coaching. Downing embarked on a diverse journey, mentoring athletes in various sports across different places.
His recent stop brought him to Barrow, where he currently wears multiple hats. He serves as the defensive coordinator for the Whalers, spearheads the middle school program as head coach, and oversees athletic endeavors as the Barrow High School Athletic Director. Downing's dedication goes beyond titles; he is a pillar of the Barrow community, leaving a lasting impact on young athletes and fostering a genuine passion for sports.
​
Coaching Accolades:​
2022 Assistant Coach of the Year - Football
Simon Aina
Assistant Coach O-Line & D-Line
Football has always been a passion of mine. Ever since I was a young boy, I dreamed of playing the sport at a high level. I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to play all four years of high school, but my journey didn't end there. I wanted to continue playing in college, but life had other plans for me. I had a family to take care of, so I made the difficult decision to hang up my cleats and focus on my responsibilities.
However, fate had a different plan in store for me. In 2017, I was given the chance to volunteer at Barrow High School, and I jumped at the opportunity. Coaching at the high school level was something I never imagined myself doing, but it turned out to be one of the best decisions I've ever made. As a volunteer, I started as a Defensive and Offensive line coach, but I was determined to make a bigger impact.
In 2020, I was hired as a full-time Defensive Line and Conditioning coach. It's an incredible feeling to be able to share my knowledge and passion for the sport with young athletes. Every fall, I have the privilege of mentoring and training these talented individuals, and it brings me joy to see them grow and excel on and off the field. Being a coach at Barrow High School has not only allowed me to continue my love for football but has also allowed me to make a positive impact on the lives of these young athletes.
I am grateful for the chance to be a part of this amazing program and contribute to these students' success.
Ben Fosi
D-Line and Running Backs
Ben, a homegrown hero returning to the gridiron! This Barrow High School graduate and former football standout traded his cleats for a whistle after dominating the field at Presentation College.
​
Ben brings a powerhouse of knowledge back to the Whalers, ready to shape the next generation of defensive line and running backs.
High School:
2 x All-Conference RB
1 x Honorable Mention RB
2x All conference LB
Presentation College
2 x All-conference DE
1 x Honorable Mention DT
