Ivan "John" Grnja 1979

Ivan Grnja was born April 26th, 1949 in Darda, of the then Yugoslavia. A speedy little winger, who had excellent ball control, who was able to beat opponents both inside and out.

Played with Yugoslavia first division side Osijek his entire career starting in 1968. During that time he has scored 152 goals in 486 games. The left-winger was also an experienced Yugoslavian National Team player, he also played for their Olympic Team 27 times scoring 13 goals.

He started his NASL career on loan with the Toronto Metros in their 1976 Championship drive. He joined the Rowdies, again on loan from Osijek, 18 games into the 1979 season. He played in 14 games and scored 1 goal, helping the Rowdies to Soccer Bowl '79 against the Vancouver Whitecaps, in which he came on as a substitute.
Today, Ivan is the coach of the U19's Croatia National Team.