Andre Pinho ’23 Headed to McMaster
New St. Michael’s College School (SMCS) alumnus, Andre Pinho ’23 is getting ready to head off to McMaster University in September 2023 to continue his academic and athletic career as a member of the Marauders men’s soccer team.
“I chose McMaster because of the high level of education that it can offer me,” says Pinho, who plans to study the humanities. “I also loved the community that the school has to offer and how they strive to become more than just a school but a home for the next four years.”
Pinho will be playing the ‘right back’ position when he joins the team this upcoming fall season.
“In terms of the McMaster soccer programme, I really enjoyed meeting the team and coaches who were all super welcoming and made us feel comfortable,” he says. “Additionally, I am excited to play and use their state-of-the-art facilities, including their home field, Ron Joyce Stadium.”
Academically, Pinho is an honour roll student and a recipient of the St. Thomas More Society Award at his graduation ceremony for consistently maintaining an overall average of 80 per cent or higher for his entire high school career.
“Andre was the consummate team player and always did what was best for the group,” says Miko Romano, teacher and coach of the Sr. Soccer Team. “We are very proud of his achievements and look forward to following his successes at McMaster!”
At the 2023 Athletic Awards Banquet, Pinho was named one of the Senior Soccer MVPs.
“Growing up, I started my journey of club soccer at Etobicoke Energy, where I furthered my talents and grew as a person,” says Pinho. “Over the past few years, I have made a few switches but ended up at Brampton Prostars FC, where I currently play. One of my favourite memories of playing club soccer was when my team and I became provincial champions in 2021 when we won the Ontario Cup.”
At SMCS, Pinho has been playing for the school’s soccer programme since Grade 7.
“It was truly a wonderful experience to play with some of my closest friends who became brothers over the years,” he adds. “I still remember when I was in Grade 9 and I scored a golden goal header that put our team through to the final. The whole team, including the coaches, ran onto the field to celebrate together. I feel that this moment truly bonded the team as we went on to the win final and become CISAA Champions.”
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