Amid health concerns, UMaine head coach takes indefinite medical leave

ORONO, Maine — University of Maine will be without head coach Barron indefinitely due to medical reasons, according to a report by the Maine news station, WGME.

"I appreciate the concern people have showed me over the past month," said Barron. "My condition was not improving, and the medication had side effects, that interfered with coaching effectively. I care deeply for our players and staff and I believe it is in the team's best interest that I take a medical leave. I know our fans will give them their full support."

In Barron’s absence associate head coach, Vachon, will lead UMaine. She is in her sixth season with the Black Bears.

Barron is also in his sixth year at UMaine coming off to back-to-back America East regular season titles and appearances at the WNIT. During his time in Orono, he has lead his team to a 85-89 record.

The Black Bears will play their first game without Barron on January 7 against University of Maryland Baltimore County. Vachon will look to guide the team back into the win column after a 8-9 start to the season.