Breaking: Wanderers won't renew head coach Patrice Gheisar
The Halifax Wanderers announced today that head coach Patrice Gheisar won't be offered a new contract. The decision to move on comes less than 48-hours since the end of Halifax's home playoff loss to York United FC.
“I would like to thank Patrice for his significant contributions to the Halifax Wanderers over the past three seasons,” Wanderers founder and president Derek Martin said via a press release on Friday.
“Patrice brought a tireless work ethic and infectious energy to our club and our community while leading us to some memorable victories and a number of record-setting achievements on the pitch.”
Gheisar was announced by the club in November, 2022, and went on to set several Wanderers' records in his first season, including most points, most goals and most road points. They finished third on the table in 2023 and hosted the club's first home playoff match — a 1-0 loss to Pacific FC. The club then signed him to a two-year extension.
However, the Wanderers failed to meet expectations in 2024. They struggled on the road, were undisciplined and were the first club eliminated from playoff contention. They finished sixth-place on the table.
This past season was a return to form for Gheisar and his squad as they added key players like Isaiah Johnston in midfield, Thomas Meilleur-Giguère in defence as Rayane Yesli in goal. The result was a fourth-place finish, again hosting a home playoff match, while setting new records for goals scored (41) and roads points (15). Yet a heartbreaking shootout loss to York United on Wednesday night failed to meet internal expectations.
“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,” Gheisar said.
"I am grateful for everything and the trust that Derek, Matt and Mark put into me. As I move on to my next challenge, I’ll always remain a fan of this club and of the people who make it special. The foundation we’ve built here is strong — and I have no doubt that even greater things are ahead.”
Gheisar finishes his tenure in Halifax with a record of 29W-31L-23D.
The search for a new head coach, stated the release, begins immediately.
Cover Photo Credit: Halifax Wanderers FC
