Jacksonville University announced that Ivan Barriga will join the men’s soccer coaching staff as an assistant, a decision confirmed by head coach Ali Simmons. The addition comes as the program looks to build on recent successes and deepen its tactical expertise.
A Proven Track Record
Barriga arrives after a distinguished tenure at Barry University, where he contributed to a series of championship campaigns that restored the program to national prominence.
During his time at Barry, he was part of the 2018 NCAA Division II title‑winning side, scoring the decisive penalty in the semifinal shootout against Fort Hays State. The following year the Buccaneers captured both the regular‑season and tournament titles of the Sunshine State Conference, a first in program history.
His coaching résumé also includes a stint as associate head coach beginning in 2024, a role he assumed after starting as a volunteer assistant in 2019. Under his guidance, Barry earned consecutive conference regular‑season crowns in 2022 and 2023 and was repeatedly recognized with SSC Coaching Staff of the Year honors.
Barriga’s playing career began at Barry, where he appeared in 20 matches between 2017 and 2018 and was credited with seven shutouts. He later played two seasons at Florida National University before representing Argentina at the U‑20 level for a year and a half.
Beyond the collegiate game, he has coached youth teams, leading the Miami Shores Soccer Club U17 girls and working with the Hollywood Cyclones across age groups from U8 to U18. His squads amassed more than 20 trophies, underscoring his ability to develop talent at every level.
A 2019 graduate of Barry University, Barriga holds degrees in sport management and business administration, a foundation that he says will help him navigate the administrative and strategic demands of his new role.
Looking Ahead
Simmons expressed confidence that Barriga’s blend of playing experience, championship pedigree, and coaching acumen will elevate the program’s competitiveness. The university community anticipates that the new partnership will translate into stronger recruiting pipelines and deeper on‑field performance.