The Halifax Wanderers can today confirm that defender Ryan James will undergo surgery in July with a recovery timeline that will sideline him for the remainder of the 2023 season.

“Naturally, we’re all disappointed for Ryan, who has already become an integral part of our squad and an outstanding professional to add to our club in the short time he has been with us so far,” sporting director Matt Fegan said. “We respect his decision to get surgery in the interests of his playing career, and he will have our full support on his road to recovery.”

James will stay in Halifax to recover in an environment that will allow him to remain with his teammates while working his way back to a return to playing. 

“Even with the tough road ahead to recovery, I’m excited and committed to coming back as strong as ever as a player,” James said. “There’s even good amongst the struggle, and you just have to be brave enough to learn from it.”

A veteran of over 200 professional matches, James signed for Halifax ahead of the 2023 season and made six appearances for the club. A proven leader and community ambassador, James was also named an alternate captain for Halifax. 

The Wanderers have exercised a league provision that allows for roster relief in the event of a season-ending injury.