Emre Karamano Joins Tommies Men’s Soccer as First Recruit for 2026-27 Season
Fredericton, NB - The St. Thomas University Tommies men’s soccer program has announced the commitment of defender Emre Karamano from Winnipeg, MB, for the 2026-27 season.
Karamano joins the Tommies after a successful youth career in Manitoba, where he developed through several competitive programs, including Winnipeg Phoenix FC, Pioneers Futsal Club, and E&E Sports Management. He also represented Collège Churchill, where he captained the school team, while balancing his academic pursuits.
Primarily a centre back, Karamano can also play at fullback, bringing versatility and composure to the Tommies back line.
“I will bring strong leadership, experience, and a team-first mindset to the Tommies program,” said Karamano. “Having played soccer at a high level in Manitoba for many years, I understand the commitment, discipline, and work ethic needed to compete and improve every day.”
A proven leader, Karamano served as captain for both Churchill High School and Winnipeg Phoenix, experiences he says helped shape his approach to the game.
“I’ve learned how to lead by example, support teammates, and help create a positive environment on and off the field. Most importantly, I want to help build a family atmosphere within the team where everyone pushes each other to succeed and feels connected as one group.”
Karamano said his visit to STU played a major role in his decision to make the move across the country.
“From the moment I stepped onto campus for my tour, I immediately felt welcomed. Being so far away from home in Winnipeg, finding a place that felt comfortable and supportive was extremely important to me, and STU quickly felt like a second home.”
He also pointed to head coach Miles Pinset as a key factor in his commitment.
“Coach Miles is highly respected and has built a strong program. I believe he can help me become a better soccer player and push me toward accomplishing my goals of reaching the next level. His experience, leadership, and commitment to player development made STU the perfect fit for me academically and athletically.”
Academically, Karamano plans to study Business Administration at St. Thomas University.
Off the field, he stays active in his community through youth soccer coaching and prioritizes personal development through strength training and endurance work, regularly completing 5K to 10K runs.
“I want to inspire younger players from my community and show them that with hard work, discipline, and belief in yourself, anything is possible.”
Karamano shared that one of his biggest motivations comes from his late grandfather, Asim, whose dream was to see him continue advancing in soccer.
“A huge reason why I continue to push myself and give everything I have to the game is because of my grandpa, Asim. It was always his dream to see me succeed and reach the next level in soccer. Every training session, workout, and sacrifice is done to make him proud.”
The Tommies add a promising recruit to their 2026-27 class as the program continues to build toward the upcoming ACAA season.