Assistant Coach

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Janos Barna
Janos Barna
Bio
János Barna brings decades of experience and a deep passion for soccer to our program. A former standout with the UPEI Men’s soccer team, he played a key role in the Panthers’ success through the mid-1980s—earning a spot in the 1985 CIS semifinals and helping the team hold the #1 national ranking throughout the 1986 season. He capped off his university career in 1991 as co-captain, competing in his third AUS championship tournament.
 
After hanging up his cleats, János transitioned seamlessly into coaching, building an exceptional record of achievement. He began with RC United, guiding the women’s team to back-to-back Challenge Cup titles and leading them to Club Nationals in both 2014 and 2015. That same year, he joined the PEI provincial program, coaching the U15 girls to medal finishes at the Atlantic All-Stars in 2014, 2015, and 2016.
 
Since 2017, János has served as a Head Coach with PEIFC, where he led the U15 girls to a historic silver medal at the 2022 National Championships—the highest placement ever by a PEI youth team. He matched that milestone again in 2025, guiding the U17 girls to another national silver and setting a new benchmark for the age group. He has also contributed to the Holland College men’s program, helping secure the 2019 ACAA Championship, and for nearly a decade has been a dedicated member of the UPEI women’s coaching staff.
 
A three-time PEI Soccer Coach of the Year (2014, 2022, 2025), János most recently served as Head Coach for Team PEI at the 2025 Canada Games, where he led the women’s team to a historic 6th-place finish—the highest result in the province’s history.
 
János continues to inspire, mentor, and elevate soccer talent across Prince Edward Island.