Mountaineers men’s soccer announces first recruits under Coach Massafra

HAMILTON, Ont. – As he prepares for his Ontario Colleges Athletics Association (OCAA) coaching debut, Mohawk Mountaineers men's soccer head coach Davide Massafra has announced his first recruiting class for the 2025 season.

Joining the Mountaineers are Juan Franco (Hamilton, Ont.), Connor Miller (Hamilton, Ont.), Matthew Gennaccaro (Hamilton, Ont.) and Marcus Aviles (Hamilton, Ont.).

Franco, a graduate of St. John Henry Newman Catholic Secondary, has been competing with Hamilton United at the club level. He helped lead Newman to back-to-back OFSAA silver medals in 2022-23 and 2023-24. The 5'4 centre attacking midfielder brings energy and creativity to the pitch.

"Juan is a fearless player with versatile characteristics," said Massafra. "He'll be able to play multiple positions, from midfield to defence."

Miller adds depth to Mohawk's goalkeeping unit. Standing at 6'1, he brings size and skill to the backend. A graduate of Nora Frances Henderson Secondary School, he's also played for Burlington Soccer Club and Mount Hamilton. In 2023, Miller was named MVP at Nora Frances and won a GHSL Cup with Mount Hamilton.

"Connor is a smart goalkeeper with quick reflexes, strong distribution, and leadership qualities," said Massafra.

Gennaccaro, a 6'4 centre back, graduated from St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary and played club soccer with Burlington Soccer Club.

"Matthew is a tall and strong defender with good technical abilities," said Massafra. "He has a great attitude and will be a leader for us."

Aviles, a 5'11 midfielder, comes to Mohawk from St. Jean de Brebeuf Catholic Secondary and has played club soccer for Chantilly FC.

"Marcus will be a great fullback for us," said Massafra. "He's strong in one-on-one situations and brings intensity in recovery and off-ball support."

Off the pitch, the incoming student-athletes are preparing for success as well. Franco and Gennaccaro will study Business, Miller will enter the Gas and Oil Burner Technician program, and Aviles will study Electrical Engineering.

The Mountaineers begin exhibition play on August 16, traveling to Welland, Ont., to face the Niagara Knights. Following a three-game preseason, Mohawk will kick-off the 2025 OCAA regular season on the road against the Sheridan Bruins in Oakville, Ont., on September 6 at 2 p.m.

For all your Mohawk Mountaineers updates make sure to follow us on Facebook, X, and Instagram.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Satbir Singh
Sports Information, Media & Marketing Coordinator
satbir.sing6@mohawkcollege.ca

Print Friendly Version