Steve Johnson to coach Canada at FISU Games

A familiar face will lead the Canadian women’s soccer team at the International University Sports Federation (FISU) Games in Bangkok, August 8 to 18. The University of Ottawa’s Steve Johnson returns as head coach. Johnson previously led the Canadian women’s team at the 2001 World University Games in Beijing, and he was an assistant coach and general manager with the 2005 squad in Turkey.

“This year’s team has generated great interest among the top players in the country,” said Johnson. “It is clear that we will be able to build on the successful results of 2005. Regional camps are being organized across the country to evaluate and prepare the players for the games.”

Johnson boasts 15 years of Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) coaching experience, 13 with the Gee-Gees and two with Mount Allison University. During his tenure in Ottawa, the Gee-Gees have won six Ontario University Athletics (OUA) championships and advanced to eight CIS tournaments, capturing six national medals, including one gold, three silvers and two bronze. Johnson has twice been named OUA coach of the year and was recognized as the top coach in CIS women’s soccer in 1996 and 2005.

In Bangkok, Canada will play against China, South Africa and Great Britain.