Brian Barrio takes over FGCU athletics with trophies, funding in focus

FORT MYERS, Fla. - Brian Barrio says FGCU athletics already has the foundation to win. His first challenge as the Eagles’ new athletic director will be finding the resources to keep its teams competitive in a rapidly changing college sports landscape.

Barrio was formally introduced Monday after FGCU announced his hiring July 2. He becomes the fourth athletic director in school history and brings more than two decades of experience, including previous athletic director roles at UMBC and Central Connecticut State.

“It is not one of those situations you’re coming in and trying to fix something,” Barrio said. “There’s a foundation here, a really excellent foundation.”

Barrio takes over as athletic departments navigate NIL deals, the transfer portal and direct revenue sharing. He said more funding will be essential if FGCU wants to compete for championships.

His plan includes strengthening donor relationships, creating new corporate sponsorship opportunities and building deeper ties across Southwest Florida.

“You’ve got to build and develop and deepen the relationships that we already have,” Barrio said. “And so that involves really tapping into the community and understanding how to connect the passion of the people of Southwest Florida with what we’re doing here.”

Fundraising was a major part of Barrio’s previous stops. FGCU said UMBC set consecutive fundraising records and secured a $5 million arena naming-rights agreement during his tenure. Department fundraising also increased 40% during his first year at Central Connecticut State.

Barrio also wants to improve student attendance and connect FGCU with more schools, youth sports organizations and families throughout the region.

“I want it to be a place that Southwest Florida feels connected to, regardless of where you went to college,” Barrio said.

Barrio said he will begin by listening to coaches, athletes and staff members before deciding what needs to change.

His goal is to eventually fill the open spaces in his office with pictures of FGCU teams holding championship trophies.