After a strong opening stretch to the Canadian Premier League season, Isaiah Johnston is quickly establishing himself as one of the driving forces behind Halifax Wanderers’ success.
The 24-year-old Canadian midfielder has recorded three goals and two assists already this season, while earning selection in two CPL Team of the Week squads. Johnston believes his current form reflects some of the best football of his career so far.
“This season has started strongly on a personal level,” Johnston said. “I feel I’ve been playing some of the most impactful football of my career, contributing to the team through both goals and assists. My focus now is on maintaining consistency and continuing to build on this momentum.”
Halifax has shown resilience early in the campaign, coming from behind on several occasions to secure valuable points. Johnston believes the squad is moving in the right direction despite still searching for complete performances. “We’ve shown resilience by coming from behind on three occasions to secure important points,” he explained. “At the same time, we know we need to turn draws into wins. There’s a strong belief within the group as the season progresses.”
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Away from the pitch, Johnston maintains a disciplined daily routine centred around training, gym work, and recovery sessions, helping him sustain his performances during the busy season schedule. His ambitions also extend beyond individual success. Johnston hopes to help Halifax achieve a historic playoff breakthrough while continuing to grow into a leadership role within the squad. “I want to contribute in a way that helps push the club forward,” he said. “A big objective for us is advancing past the first round of the playoffs for the first time in the club’s history, while ultimately competing to win the league.”
Johnston’s journey has not been without challenges. Over a 12-month period, he lived in three different places across two countries while dealing with limited playing opportunities and time away from family. However, he credits those experiences for strengthening him mentally. “Those experiences taught me resilience and helped me become more comfortable handling adversity,” Johnston said.
If his current form continues, Johnston could become one of the defining players in Halifax’s push for success this season.