Midfielder Waterman signs with Cavalry FC

Cavalry FC has brought aboard midfielder Joel Waterman, the club’s second round pick of 2018 CPL-U Sports Draft.

Waterman, originally from Aldergrove, B.C., started playing with Aldergrove youth soccer at the age of five.

He was 12 when he moved to Langley, B.C., and took part in provincial and national training programs while playing for a youth team there.

“I think now that the CPL is in place, it gives players like me the opportunity to develop through the system, get a university degree, and still play professional football in my own country,” said Waterman upon signing with Cavalry FC.

“The relationship is unique, and now it’s my job to take full advantage of the opportunity.”

Waterman had the opportunity to play in the British Columbia Soccer Premier League during his U16-18 seasons, when he was part of two national championship teams. While continuing his education at the post-secondary level and playing soccer for the Trinity Western University Spartans, Waterman played in the Premier Development League.

Waterman has also played for the Kitsap Pumas, TSS Rovers and Foothills FC, with whom he was on their 2018 national championship team. He is in his fifth year (his last year of U Sports eligibility) at Trinity Western.

Signing with Cavalry FC marks his first professional contract.

“Joel is our first U Sports draft player that we’ve signed to a professional contract. He’s making some good history here,” said Tommy Wheeldon Jr., head coach and general manager of Cavalry FC.

“He’s a great competitor and a versatile player who is equally comfortable playing centrally in midfield or at the back, which gives us good depth and quality in the squad. Joel is the type of player and character who can come here, develop his game, and help us grow a competitive culture.”