Wanderers trigger club option for star Isaiah Johnston
Johnston, 24, originally came to Halifax via a transfer from USL Championship side Loudoun United and signed a guaranteed two-year deal through 2026, with a club option or 2027.
One of the Halifax Wanderers' most important pieces will be back for the 2027 season as the club announced Wednesday it had exercised its option on star midfielder Isaiah Johnston.
Johnston, 24, originally came to Halifax via a transfer from USL Championship side Loudoun United and signed a guaranteed two-year deal through 2026, with a club option or 2027.
The club's move to trigger Johnston's option may be one of its easiest moves it makes this off-season given his rise to prominence under head coach Vanni Sartini. Johnston arguably formed one of the best midfield pairs last year with midfielder Lorenzo Callegari but was moved further up the pitch in 2026. The results, of course, speak for themselves as he flourished offensively, leading the club with 11 goals — a professional highwater mark — through 27 league matches.
This past season also saw Johnston emerge as a leader in the dressing room as he was named one of the club's captains.
“Isaiah had a fantastic season and grew immensely in a role that had him playing closer to the opposition goal,” Sartini said in a press release. “He also stepped up as a leader and earned his position as one of our captains. His play, effort and passionate leadership was consistent all season and his experience is important to our team. Isaiah is a proud representative of the club and we’re excited to have him back next season.”
The Wanderers fell short of expectations this year but securing Johnston is an excellent first step in their rebuild. With over 150 professional matches under his belt, and still relatively young, it's not wild to think he can continue to improve on his excellent form in 2026.
“Since last season, Halifax has been home and it’s been special to build a life and a family here so I am looking forward to being back and to continue representing Halifax," said Johnston.
“The fans have been so receptive to me and it’s just been such an amazing experience. This year did a lot for my confidence and I’ll take that into next year and continue trying to better myself and be better for the team. I don’t think we fulfilled the potential this group has to deliver more for our fans on the pitch.”
Cover Photo Credit: Trevor MacMillan / Halifax Wanderers FC
