Ancaster, Ont. – Redeemer University Athletics is pleased to announce a leadership change within the Redeemer Royals Men's Basketball program, with Howard Nañes named as the new Head Coach.
Redeemer Athletics would like to extend sincere gratitude to Steve Hopkins and his staff for their faithful service and leadership over the past three seasons. Their commitment to the program and investment in the lives of student-athletes have been deeply valued, and we thank them for their contributions to Redeemer Men's Basketball.
Nañes brings extensive experience as a coach, educator, and ministry leader, with over two decades of involvement in basketball and Christian mentorship. His background spans both secondary and post-secondary athletics, complemented by theological training and chaplaincy leadership. He attended Tyndale University, holds degrees from York University, University of Toronto, and earned a Master of Divinity from McMaster University.
"We are excited to welcome Howard to Redeemer," said Director of Athletics & Recreation James Kryger. "He brings a strong alignment with our mission and a clear vision for developing student-athletes through excellence in competition, intentional character formation, and Christ-centered leadership."
Most recently, Nañes served as Head Coach of both the Men's and Women's Basketball programs at the University of Toronto Mississauga. During his tenure, he led the men's program to a 41–16 record and four Ontario Tournament Championships.
Nañes has demonstrated a consistent ability to develop student-athletes both on and off the court, with former players achieving success at the university level, including conference MVP honours and national recognition. His coaching philosophy emphasizes discipline, accountability, and the development of high-character individuals.
His impact as a mentor and leader has also been recognized provincially, recently being featured by the Coaches Association of Ontario in their "Empowering Stories from Behind the Bench" series, highlighting his role as "a guiding force in his community" and his commitment to developing athletes beyond the game. You can read the full feature here: Coach. Mentor. Mississauga Proud.
"I am grateful for the opportunity to join Redeemer University," said Nañes. "I look forward to building a program that pursues excellence while investing in the holistic development of student-athletes. My desire is to create an environment where players are challenged to grow as competitors, students, and individuals of strong character and faith."
As the only faith-based institution competing within the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association, Redeemer provides a unique environment for student-athletes to integrate their athletic pursuits with personal and spiritual growth.
Looking ahead, the program will prioritize recruiting student-athletes from across Ontario and beyond who align with Redeemer's mission and values. Through intentional relationship-building with high schools, club programs, and prep systems, the Royals aim to establish a strong and sustainable talent pipeline while fostering a culture centered on accountability, development, and purpose.
Redeemer Men's Basketball will begin this new chapter under Nañes' leadership with a focus on competitive growth and long-term program development in preparation for the 2026 season. Coach Nañes will announce his staff in the weeks ahead as he looks to bring the Royals back to the OCAA playoffs next season.
