(FREDERICTON, NB) A pair of backs from the United Kingdom are the first members of the UNB Varsity Reds men’s soccer team’s recruiting class of 2018.

Centre back Joe Kemp, of York, England, and wing back Harry Ratcliffe-Bingham, of Halstead, England, have signed U SPORTS Letters of Intent and will join the Varsity Reds beginning in the 2018-19 season.

Kemp comes to UNB from the York City FC, where he was most recently a member of their U18 side. He’s versatile and can defend from centre or the right side.

“UNB stood out to me as a high achieving university, both academically and athletically,” said Kemp. “The soccer program is professionally run and I feel it will continue to challenge me and help me grow further as a player and as a person.”

While with York City’s U18 team, Kemp was coached by Jonathan Greening, a respected English player with over 300 Premier League appearances.

“We’re excited to add Joe to our back line,” said Varsity Reds head coach Miles Pinsent. “He’s an experienced player who will be capable of stepping in and contributing right away. His strength and aggression suit him well for U SPORTS soccer.”

Ratcliffe-Bingham joins the Varsity Reds from the Braintree Town club.

At the age of 11, he was identified by Tottenham FC, and he played in their youth academy for four years.

He chose UNB over dozens of other schools in both Canada and the United States.

“The standard is extremely high and very professional with Miles and the team offering a fantastic coaching regime,” said Ratcliffe-Bingham. “I’m really looking forward to being part of this incredible team and getting started at UNB.”

“Harry has a very impressive playing background that will enable him to have an impact immediately,” said Pinsent. “He’s a modern-day fullback that can comfortably play out of our end and is keen to join in the attack.”

Ratcliffe-Bingham will study Business Administration.

Kemp has yet to decide, but will enter either the Arts or Business faculty.