Jason Mesa named head coach of men’s soccer program
By: Fernando Bossoes
Humber Athletics Communications
ETOBICOKE — The Humber Department of Athletics is proud to announce Jason Mesa as the next head coach of the Humber Hawks men's soccer program for the 2025-2026 season. Mesa takes over Canada's most accomplished collegiate soccer program, following the departure of legendary head coach Michael Aquino.
"Jason's been with us for a long time — as a player and assistant coach — and he's been an outstanding coach," said Ray Chateau, Humber's Director of Athletics and Recreation. "It was an easy decision for me. He's highly regarded by the players, very good technically, and bleeds blue and gold."
Mesa becomes only the fifth head coach in the program's history since its first match in 1974. He is the first former player to rise through the ranks and lead the Hawks from the sidelines.
"It's a full circle moment. This is where I played, went to school, and competed. I was able to lead this team as a captain and, 20 years later, I'm taking over the program," Mesa said. "There's a lot of emotion right now and a lot of gratitude. I wish the season started next week."
"I'd love to say thank you to Ray Chateau and Michael Kopinak for giving me this opportunity. Also, my wife and my mom, for all their patience with the time this game has taken away from family time, and of course, all the coaches that I have worked with and under."
Aquino concludes his 11-season career at Humber with a remarkable 141-10-11 overall record, capturing eight OCAA titles and seven CCAA national championships. He is a four-time OCAA Division Coach of the Year and a recipient of the 2017 CCAA Coaching Excellence Award. The Hawks played more games nationally ranked than not during his tenure.
"This program has been highly successful and Jason's been a part of that, in terms of managing the players, personalities, tactical pieces, and just being a real influence on the players," Chateau said. "He's been part of these eight championships. He understands the makeup of the team, why we've been successful and now he's going to add his touch to it."
As a player, Mesa was known for his versatility, but it was as a sweeper where he truly excelled. A former captain, he anchored the Hawks' defensive line during their 2001 national championship run — a team that allowed just one goal in six postseason matches.
A two-time OCAA champion, Mesa was inducted into the Humber Hall of Fame in 2009, the OCAA Hall of Fame in 2023 and was named one of the top 50 most influential people in Humber Athletics' history. His collegiate playing career includes a 47-5-6 record, along with a 2000 OCAA League All-Star and a 2000 CCAA Championship All-Tournament Team selection.
But Mesa's impact on the program did not end after his playing days. He returned in 2008 as an assistant coach and played a vital role in maintaining the team's dominance. Since joining the coaching staff, the Hawks have captured 11 OCAA gold medals and eight CCAA national titles, boasting a 195-21-15 record.
"I've had people ask, 'How come haven't you gone to another institution where you might be a head coach?'" Mesa said. "I can't see myself in another uniform or another jersey. This is where I want to be."
Coach Mesa will add some familiar names to his coaching staff for this season. Combined with keeper coach Karman Singh, this group has captured nine CCAA national championships.
- Lorenzo Redwood
- Played two seasons with the Hawks from 1993-95, earning an all-star selection in 1993 while winning the CCAA silver medal in 1994.
- Assistant Coach - Canadian Futsal National Team
- Toronto Blizzard Head Technical Coach
- Gerardo Magno
- Played five seasons with the Humber Hawks (2012-16)
- 2022 Humber Hall of Fame Inductee
- Four-time CCAA national champion
- Kleinburg Nobleton Soccer Club - Coach
- Andrew Seuradge
- Oakville Blue Devils League1
- Coached the Sheridan Bruins for 13 seasons - winning the 2014 CCAA national championship.
