University of La Verne

Kaipo Barnes joined the University of La Verne football program in 2024 as the linebackers coach. A native of Hanford, California, Barnes brings a strong background in both collegiate and high school coaching, along with a championship pedigree as a former player. Prior to arriving at La Verne, he spent four seasons coaching at his alma mater, Hanford High School, serving as the linebackers coach and special teams coordinator. During his tenure, he helped lead the Bullpups to multiple playoff appearances and earned a reputation for building tough, disciplined defensive units.

Barnes played collegiately at Whitworth University from 2016 to 2020, where he was a four-year contributor at linebacker and a member of the 2019 Northwest Conference Championship team. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Business while competing at the NCAA Division III level. As a standout high school athlete, Barnes played a key role in Hanford High’s success, helping capture two CIF Championships and a California State Title. His experience as a player at both the high school and college levels fuels his ability to relate to and develop student-athletes, both on and off the field.