David Barnes named as Men’s Division 2 Assistant Coach

Barnes is a Utah native who started playing hockey at the age of 8 after first seeing the sport played during in the 2002 Winter Olympic Games in Salt Lake City.

Barnes played a mix of AA & AAA during his youth hockey career. After graduating high school, he played two seasons for the Salt Lake City Jr. Moose  (now known as the Utah Outliers) in the Western States Hockey League.

He turned down several out-of-state NCAA DIII and ACHA D1 offers to join the Skatin’ Utes his freshman year for the 2014 – 2015 Season. Barnes was a key part of the two most successful ACHA D2 campaigns in program history, aiding in helping the team qualify for nationals in back-to-back seasons, finishing 6^th and 11^th, respectively, while leading all Defensemen in points both seasons. 

“I am excited to be rejoining Utah Hockey as the M2 Assistant Coach. My playing days for Utah Hockey gave me the opportunity to play the sport I love, create lifelong friendships, memories, and receive an incredible education while doing it. I’m joining with familiar faces and ambitions to once again cultivate a winning culture and help bring the PAC-8 Championship trophy back to Utah,” Barnes said.

“Coach Barnes is an absolutely essential addition to the coaching staff. His experience within the program and outstanding leadership qualities will be invaluable throughout the season. His fantastic understanding of how to manage a team during games will be critical to our success as we look to develop players and win hockey games,” said Men’s Division 2 Head Coach Nick Fornelius.

Utah Hockey would like to welcome David and wish him the absolute best in the upcoming season!