Janos Barna
-
- Title:
- Lead Assistant
Bio
János Barna brings decades of experience and passion for soccer to our team. A former standout player for the UPEI Men’s soccer team, János was instrumental in their success during the mid-1980s, including being part of the 1985 CIS semi-finalist team and the #1 ranked team in Canada the entire season. He capped off his playing career in 1991 playing in his third AUS championship as co-captain.
János transitioned seamlessly into coaching, where he has built an exceptional track record of success. He began with RC United, leading the women’s team to consecutive Challenge Cup Championships and representing PEI at Club Nationals in 2014 and 2015. Joining the PEI provincial program in 2014, he coached the U15 girls' team to medal finishes at Atlantic All Stars in 2014 ,2015 and 2016.
Since 2017, János has been a Head Coach with PEIFC, where he led the U15 girls’ team to a historic silver medal at the 2022 National Championships – the highest placing ever by a PEI youth team. As an assistant coach with the Holland College men’s team, he contributed to their Atlantic Collegiate Athletic Association Championship in 2019, and for nearly a decade, he has been a key part of the UPEI women’s program.
János’s dedication to excellence has earned him numerous accolades, including PEI Soccer Coach of the Year in 2014 and 2022, and a nomination for Sport PEI Coach of the Year in 2022. He is currently the Head Coach for the 2025 PEI Women’s Canada Games program, continuing to inspire and develop soccer talent on the island.