Halifax Wanderers Dismiss Coach Patrice Gheisar After Playoff Exit

The Halifax Wanderers have terminated the contract of coach Patrice Gheisar following a disappointing penalty shootout loss to York United in a Canadian Premier League (CPL) play-in match. The decision comes on the heels of a tense game that ended dramatically, with York overcoming a late deficit to secure a place in the next round.

In a statement released on October 24, 2025, Derek Martin, president of the Halifax Wanderers, expressed the need for change. “We have built one of the most attractive opportunities in North American soccer here in Halifax, but the reality is that we have not yet found success in the big moments on the pitch, and that needs to change,” he said. Martin emphasized that the next head coach would have a clear mandate to construct a championship-winning team and maintain full control over the roster.

Gheisar’s departure marks a significant shift for the club as they restructure their football operations. The new head coach will also take on the responsibilities of sporting director, a role designed to enhance the club’s strategic approach moving forward.

Taking the reins in November 2022, Gheisar led the Wanderers to their inaugural CPL playoff appearance in 2023. Under his guidance, the team set several records, including the most wins in a season, total points, and fewest goals conceded. Just prior to the playoffs, Halifax rewarded Gheisar with a contract extension that would have kept him at the club until the end of 2025.

The recent playoff match against York was a heart-wrenching affair. Halifax initially led the match 1-0, thanks to a goal from Jeremy Gagnon-Lapare. However, the game was suspended for approximately 20 minutes due to lightning, and upon resuming, York equalized with only four minutes left in regulation time. The contest proceeded to extra time, where Shaan Hundal‘s goal in the 118th minute secured York’s victory after a penalty shootout, which ended 5-4.

Reflecting on his time with the club, Gheisar expressed pride in the progress made. “When I arrived here three years ago, I spoke about building something lasting—a culture, an identity, and a belief that we could compete with anyone through hard work, courage, and unity. Looking back, I’m proud of how far we’ve come together,” he stated. He also noted the strong foundation laid during his tenure, expressing confidence that greater achievements lie ahead for the Wanderers.

Before joining Halifax, Gheisar enjoyed a successful stint as the coach of Vaughan Azzurri in League1 Ontario, where he was named coach of the year in 2022 after leading the team to an undefeated season and a league championship. His expertise was recognized at the national level, as he was invited by Canada’s national team coach Jesse Marsch to serve as a guest coach during the November 2024 international window.

As the Halifax Wanderers move forward, the club will be looking for a new leader capable of guiding the team to success in future seasons. The upcoming appointment will be critical in shaping the club’s competitive strategy in the CPL and beyond.