[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 107 (Monday, June 23, 2025)]
[Senate]
[Page S3492]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        REMEMBERING ROGER BARTA

 Mr. MARSHALL. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the life 
and legacy of Roger Barta, a legendary Kansas high school educator and 
football coach who devoted his career to guiding and mentoring young 
Kansans, both in the classroom and on the gridiron.
  For over 30 years, Coach Barta served as a math teacher and head 
football coach for the Smith Center High School Redmen. Throughout his 
tenure, he inspired countless student-athletes to pursue excellence in 
all aspects of life. His legacy is a testament to not only his 
character but also his extraordinary ability to inspire others.
  Before Smith Center, Coach Barta coached at Atwood, Tonganoxie, and 
WaKeeney. No matter the school, his approach was the same: focus on 
fundamentals, play as a team, and treat others with respect. His teams 
were disciplined and hard working, traits that reflect their coach.
  During his time leading the Redmen, he built one of the most 
successful football programs in Kansas State history--winning eight 
State championships, including five straight from 2004 to 2008, and 
leading the team to a 79-game win streak. He retired in 2012 with a 
career record of 323 wins and 68 losses.
  However, Coach Barta's impact extended far beyond athletic 
achievements. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and an 
inspiration to many. Coach Barta believed that mutual respect and love 
for one another were the keys to victory, a philosophy that continues 
to influence generations of high school athletes and the Smith Center, 
KS, community.
  Coach Barta retired from coaching in 2012 and was inducted into the 
Kansas Sports Hall of Fame 2 years later. He is remembered not only as 
a remarkable coach, but also as an exceptional man. May his legacy 
serve as a lasting example of how success is built on character, 
consistency, and compassion.
  I now ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life and legacy of 
Coach Roger Barta and in expressing our gratitude for his positive 
impact on generations of young Kansans.

                          ____________________