The Halifax Wanderers have signed Canadian defender Doneil Henry for the remainder of the 2023 Canadian Premier League season with an option for 2024.
Henry, 30, is a veteran central defender that adds another imposing presence to the Wanderers’ back line. He most recently played for MLS side Minnesota United as part of a storied career that has seen him make over 200 professional appearances, including 114 in MLS.
“As every Canadian soccer fan knows, it’s going to be a pleasure to have Doneil part of our team and add his experience to our group,” Wanderers head coach Patrice Gheisar said. “I think this is huge for the league overall, but also a statement that he believes in Halifax as he would have had many options. I’m excited that he wants to come here as part of his journey.”
From Brampton, Ontario, Henry was a key piece of Canada’s run to the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The team finished first overall in CONCACAF’s final round of qualifying, and Henry started in Canada’s 4-0 win over Jamaica, sending the country to its first FIFA World Cup in 36 years. In total, Henry has made 44 senior appearances for Canada, scoring once.
Henry’s professional career began in 2010 when he became the first-ever Toronto FC academy graduate to sign for the first team. Over two stints with his hometown club, Henry made 101 appearances and scored five goals. During his time in Toronto, Henry also helped the club win three consecutive Canadian Championships in 2010, 2011 and 2012.
Other career highlights include a move in 2015 to English Premier League side West Ham United, along with stints at Blackburn Rovers, the Vancouver Whitecaps and Korean club Suwon Samsung Bluewings.
“It was an easy decision to come to Halifax,” Henry said. “I’m excited to be close to home, I know a few of the boys on the team, and I know Patrice (Gheisar), who is the reason I wanted to do this because he’s a coach I trust. I know him, and I talked to Kamal (Miller) and Dayne (St. Clair) about him too.”
“I think my experience can help uplift the young talented guys on this team, I can be a vocal guy that helps us be organized.”
Henry was in line to be named to Canada’s final roster for the 2022 World Cup but pulled his name from contention due to a calf injury. He elected to sacrifice his spot to give another teammate the opportunity due to the injury potentially limiting his availability for all matches.
“We’re thrilled to welcome a player of Doneil’s pedigree to Halifax and feel he will be a great addition to our locker room and the club as a whole,” sporting director Matt Fegan said. “His playing career and his contribution to elevate Canadian soccer to the next level speaks for itself. He is a player renowned for establishing strong connections with his clubs and their supporters, and we have no doubt he will enjoy his time playing for the best fans in the CPL.”
