After over three decades as the Head Football Coach of Los Alamitos High School, John Barnes announced his retirement on Nov. 20.
Barnes leaves behind a great legacy and an outstanding football program. Since 1979, he has created a strong foundation that fosters success both on and off the football field.
Barnes valued not only winning, but also preparing young men for a future with character and integrity. “Coach John Barnes is ‘The Los Al Way.’ A tradition for 37 years, he has shown us how to win, how to grow from our challenges, and how to do it all with honor and grace. We will always be grateful from the bottom of our hearts,” said Diana Hill, Los Alamitos Unified Board President and former Los Al football booster president.
During his illustrious coaching career at Los Al, Barnes won 321 games, along with four CIF Championship titles and 17 league championships. He was elected to the State Hall of Fame in 2013, was the National Coach of the Year in 2002, and was the California Coach of the Year in 1993. In addition, Coach Barnes retires as the most winningest active coach in the State of California.
During his tenure, he had a 47 game unbeaten streak and coached several All-League and All-CIF players. Many Los Al scholar athletes went on to play Division I, II, and III collegiate football with several of those players going on to play in the National Football League.
He also had the joy of coaching both of his sons, Brian and Jimmy Barnes. His wife, Anita, and daughter, Karyn, were always there to support Los Al football.
Coach Barnes built the reputation of Los Al football from a local team to a national powerhouse. He has been recognized by countless service groups for his impact on not only athletics, but also the school and community at large. Barnes epitomizes “Los Al For Life” and what it means to be a coach. His legacy has impacted generations of Los Alamitos alumni, families, community members, and the world of high school football.
Superintendent, Sherry Kropp, stated, “Please join me in congratulating Coach Barnes for his service to our students and families and wishing him all good things in the next chapter of his life. We will miss him and always embrace the words he brought to Los Al, Griffin Pride!”
