COLLINGWOOD native Morey Doner aims to challenge for the Canadian Premier League (CPL) soccer title this season following his move from York United to HFX Wanderers.

The 26-year-old, who is entering his third campaign in Canada’s top soccer league, said that his move is a ‘fresh start’ and hopes his new Halifax-based team can bounce back after losing in the final of last season’s Island Games to Forge FC.

Doner said on his transfer: “What drew me to HFX was the performances on the field last year.

“They were one of the best in the league and they played attractive soccer. The side also has many pieces locked in for the next few years, so this has been a business move for me. 

“As a soccer player, you want to win trophies and I think this is the best spot for me to try to do that and be successful.”

TOUGH DECISIONS

During his two-year spell with York United, formerly named York9 FC, Doner was dubbed the ‘Collingwood Cannon’ by supporters and claimed the Fan’s Player of the Season award in his first campaign. He stated that it was a hard decision to move on: “It was tough. York were the first team to give me my first professional chance and Jimmy Brennan (York United coach) has always been there for me on and off the pitch. 

“But this is something you have to do in life and soccer sometimes.

“The team didn’t perform well this year, myself included, and after the season, I took some time to reflect. I thought that a fresh start is what I needed to push myself to the next level.”

A CHALLENGING PATH

The former Collingwood Collegiate Institute student endured a challenging path to the Canadian Premier League, making him appreciate the opportunity he has now. 

“Being a soccer player is something I’ve always wanted to do, but being from a small town, you lack players of quality and exposure. I would play two or three years above my age, and when I was in my teens, I hit a wall and started to plateau.

“Luckily, my parents always supported me and drove me to an academy two hours away several times a week, just to be in the system and put myself out there.”

After spells in the US and Brazil, the right-back returned to his hometown unsure whether he would fulfil his dream of becoming a professional soccer player.

“I really struggled with the idea of wanting to give up. It was very difficult for me, but luckily I had a big support system and people that cared for me.

“I played League One Ontario with Aurora for a few years before getting that chance to try out for York United.

“It’s all about being ready for that chance you get. Sometimes you may not think things are going to come your way, but you always have to be ready mentally and physically.”

Doner concluded: “I’m happy I took my chance. Now, I want to make the best career I can and do what I love.”