Halifax Wanderers sign 16-year-old midfielder to development contract

Halifax’s professional soccer team signed a 16-year-old Nova Scotia native after an “impressive” season with the local clubs.

Ben Marsh, raised in Fall River, was invited to the Wanderers’ training camp after competing with Suburban FC and the Wanderers’ U21 teams. The young star was named the 2024 Player of the Year.

The Wanderers signed the midfielder to a development contract, meaning he is now eligible to make four appearances for a professional club while maintaining his amateur status and ability to play with amateur teams.

“We’re excited to have a young man like Ben in our team and watch his growth as a player,” Patrice Gheisar, Wanderers head coach, said in a press release.

One of the key things that sets Marsh apart, according to the coach, is that he can play multiple positions and has a “good nose for goal.”

The teen is the latest Nova Scotian to earn a contract with his hometown club. He grew up going to Wanderers games and chose number 39 after his favourite player, Stefan Karajovanovic.

Marsh, who was 15 at the time, was key in the 2024 International Summer Series, where he scored the winning goal against Ipswich Town U21 in St. John’s.

“We’ve been really pleased with Ben’s progress since he joined our Wanderers program over the last couple of seasons and this is a commitment in both directions,” Matt Fegan, sporting director, said. “Ben has shown a maturity beyond his years and a great desire to challenge himself consistently in a professional environment which will be important traits as he pushes his game forward.”