In honor of the 100th anniversary of Black History Month, the Cal Athletics DEIBJ Office and the Cal men's and women's soccer programs are hosting a fireside chat with England and Liverpool FC legend John Barnes on Friday at the University Club at California Memorial Stadium. The event includes a panel discussion about the Black experience in soccer, Barnes' trailblazing career and the upcoming World Cup – hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada – with participants including Cal men's soccer head coach Leonard Griffin. The evening is scheduled to run from 5:30-8 p.m. PT.
 
"It's truly an honor to host and share the stage with Liverpool FC legend John Barnes during Black History Month," Griffin said. "Opportunities like this remind us how important it is to recognize those who paved the way while continuing to open doors for the next generation. The game of soccer has the power to unite people across cultures and continents, and conversations like these help ensure that Black athletes everywhere see that there is a place for them in this sport – not just to participate, but to lead, inspire and shape its future."
 
Along with Barnes and Griffin, the panel includes Cal women's soccer alumna and Bay FC striker Karlie Lema; retired MLS player Nana Attakora, now the Oakland Roots Director of Football; and retired MLS player Khari Stephenson. The moderators of the event are Dr. Ty-Ron Douglas – Associate AD of Cal Athletics Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging & Justice – and Cal women's soccer alumna Abena Aidoo.
 
"John Barnes is a generational talent who continues to make a multi-generational impact as an athlete who understands his genius," Douglas said. "It is an honor for Cal Athletics DEIBJ and Cal soccer to host him as Cal Athletics celebrates the 100th Black History Month and the beautiful game in the Bay Area! I can't think of a better way to get ready for World Cup 2026!"
 
"As a fan of Liverpool for five decades, I grew up idolizing John Barnes," Cal women's soccer head coach Neil McGuire said. "He was an exceptionally gifted player who arguably is one of the greatest talents world football has ever seen. It is truly our honor to have him join us during Black History Month to share his incredible journey."
 
As part of this special week, the San Jose Earthquakes are offering a discounted ticket price for its home opener vs. Sporting KC – which Barnes will attend – on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. PT at Pay Pal Park in San Jose. Each ticket sold at this price will raise $5 to benefit the Cal men's and women's soccer teams. Please scan the QR code below to purchase your ticket to the game.