NEW HAVEN, Conn. — Southern Connecticut State University Director of Athletics and Recreation Terrance Jones named Reuben Ayarna as interim head coach of the men's soccer program, effective Feb. 25, 2026.

Ayarna completed his third season with the Owls as a graduate assistant coach in 2025. He joined Southern Connecticut following an assistant coaching stint at his alma mater, Boston College, where he planned and led drills focused on tactical development, individual skill work and leadership training. 

Ayarna was an All-American as a student-athlete at Boston College for Ed Kelly, while also serving as team captain. In addition to his All-American accolades, Ayarna earned All-ACC Freshman Team, All-ACC Second Team, All-ACC First Team honors during his career. After graduating in 2008, he played professionally from 2008-2022, captaining two European clubs and working as a player/coach for two others. In those roles he mentored players on technical skills and performance while organizing community-service initiatives centered on social justice and civic responsibility. 

He also consults for the Africa Football Agency, advising professional clients on club selection, contract negotiations and investment opportunities tied to development projects in Ghana. 

Ayarna holds a Bachelor of Arts in sports management from University College of Northern Denmark (2019) and a Bachelor of Arts in corporate systems from Boston College (2023).