Barnstormers Aim to Soar in 2026 Under New Coach

Andre Coles takes over as head coach, looking to turn around the struggling Iowa indoor football team.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 10:08am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Iowa Barnstormers will begin the 2026 season with a new head coach, Andre Coles, who brings a diverse background as both a former indoor football player and coach. Coles recognizes the team struggled mightily in 2025, winning only one game, and is looking to 'start fresh' with a young roster that includes just four returning players, including Tyler Tate. Coles is excited for the opportunity to lead the legendary Barnstormers franchise and is focused on mentoring the players, reconnecting with the community, and restoring the team's winning identity.

Why it matters

The Barnstormers are a beloved indoor football franchise in Iowa, having been around since 1995. After a dismal 2025 season, the team's new leadership under Coach Coles will be crucial in rebuilding the team's fan base and competitiveness within the league. Coles' emphasis on player development and community engagement could help revitalize the Barnstormers' standing in Des Moines.

The details

Coles, who previously coached for the Frisco Fighters and Tulsa Oilers, inherits a Barnstormers team that won just one game in 2025. He is looking to 'start fresh' with a young roster that includes only four returning players, including Tyler Tate. Coles said his passion is mentoring young men, whether they go on to the next phase of football or their careers. The Barnstormers will host eight home games at Casey's Center in Des Moines, featuring various theme nights like Racing Night, Family Night, Kids Night, Military Night, First Responders Night, and Fan Appreciation Night.

  • The 2026 Iowa Barnstormers season will kick off on March 21 against the Quad City Steamwheelers.
  • The Barnstormers will host their home opener on April 4 against the Green Bay Blizzard.
  • The regular season will conclude on July 24 when the Barnstormers host the San Antonio Gunslingers.

The players

Andre Coles

The new head coach of the Iowa Barnstormers, bringing a diverse background as both a former indoor football player and coach.

Tyler Tate

One of the four returning players on the Barnstormers roster for the 2026 season.

Jeff Lamberti

The owner of the Iowa Barnstormers.

Juli Pettit

The general manager of the Iowa Barnstormers.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'Last year was a rough start. They struggled through a tough season.'”

— Andre Coles, Head Coach

“'Tyler was on the team last year. He didn't have to come back, but he's excited about the new coaching staff.'”

— Andre Coles, Head Coach

“'We want to get back to our identity and what we do. We have a young group that is hungry to show what they are made of.'”

— Andre Coles, Head Coach

“'It's legendary to have this opportunity and to get back to how the team used to be run. The Barnstormers have been around since 1995. I'm excited about the prospect and challenge of turning this team into a winner.'”

— Andre Coles, Head Coach

“'Whatever they do — whether it's going into the next phase of football or their careers — it's my job to train, develop and mentor men who may have been overlooked. That development piece is important.'”

— Andre Coles, Head Coach

What’s next

The Barnstormers will open their 2026 season on March 21 against the Quad City Steamwheelers, giving new head coach Andre Coles his first chance to lead the team. Fans will get their first look at the revamped Barnstormers roster and coaching staff when the team hosts its home opener on April 4 against the Green Bay Blizzard.

The takeaway

After a dismal 2025 season, the Iowa Barnstormers are hoping new head coach Andre Coles can restore the team's winning identity and reconnect with the passionate fan base in Des Moines. Coles' emphasis on player development and community engagement could be the keys to turning the Barnstormers around and making them a contender once again in the indoor football league.