The Halifax Wanderers have signed Canadian defender Ryan James to a contract for the 2023 CPL season with an option for 2024.
James, 28, is a veteran of nearly 200 professional matches. He spent the 2022 season with USL Championship side Birmingham Legion, making 29 appearances.
“Ryan is a very experienced professional and a good footballer that can solidify the left-back position and provide some extra leadership to the Wanderers,” head coach Patrice Gheisar said. “He was actually the first player I called when I got the Halifax job. He’s superb in one-on-one defending and can push our young players.”
From Mississauga, Ontario, James began his career at the Toronto FC Academy before a move to Bowling Green University. He made 79 appearances in the NCAA, tallying nine goals and 15 assists. His play stateside led to a selection in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft by Sporting Kansas City.
James would instead sign in the USL with Rochester Rhinos and went on to make 191 appearances in the league across four clubs, including nine playoff games.
“While he can also play on the wing or in central midfield, he’s a natural left-back,” Gheisar said. “Along with Riley Ferrazzo, this move gives us massive depth at left-back and allows us to utilize Wesley Timoteo further up the pitch in his most comfortable position on the right or left wing.”
A former member of Canada’s U17 setup, James also spent time in the USL with Nashville SC and Pittsburgh Riverhounds. He joined Birmingham Legion in 2021 and made a total of 62 appearances with one goal and seven assists.
“I am very excited to be joining the Wanderers this season; I have heard amazing things about the city, the people, and I can’t wait to give the supporters a fantastic season,” James said. “I also have family roots in Nova Scotia and am excited to learn more about this part of my history.”
Throughout his stint in Alabama, James also dedicated his time to giving back to the community, leading an initiative called “When I was Little…” for local youth to get school supplies and soccer equipment. During his final season with Birmingham, James received a coaching license scholarship that covers the total tuition costs of his U.S. Soccer coaching course.
“I grew up with my family, friends and community supporting me to get to the next level, and I feel this way every day,” James said. “I want to show love to the people that support me, and I plan on working with the club and community to bring When I was Little… to life in Nova Scotia.”
Wanderers Sporting Director Matt Fegan says James’ seniority and knowledge of the game was a key factor in targeting his signature.
“Ryan is a Canadian player we have held in high regard for a while, so we are delighted to secure him now and welcome him into the CPL,” Fegan said. “We are also pleased to bring in a player who clearly has an eye on a coaching career. That can only help our local football community as we continue to pursue multiple ways to grow the game together.”
Full Name: Ryan James
Age: 28
Position: Defender
Height: 5’9”
Birth Date: April 21, 1994
Birthplace: Mississauga, Ontario
Nationality: Canada
Last Club: Birmingham Legion (USL Championship)
