The Halifax Wanderers have signed Canadian defender Yorgos Gavas to a CPL development contract for the remainder of the 2023 season.

“Yorgos is a young upcoming player with a high ceiling that has fit in well with the group,” Wanderers head coach Patrice Gheisar said. “Everyone that knows him says great things, he has the right attitude and comes in ready to learn, so we’re excited to have him.”

Gavas, 16, was born and raised in Halifax and spent the majority of his development time with local side Halifax Dunbrack. In 2021, he joined the residency of the Vancouver Whitecaps Academy, spending the bulk of the last two years in Vancouver, training with the Whitecaps and attending school. 

A left-footed left-back, Gavas was also a part of the Halifax Wanderers U23 Development squad, making two appearances in the 2023 International Summer Series. Gavas scored in the Wanderers exhibition match against German club Holstein Kiel at the Wanderers Grounds on July 8. Before signing with the Wanderers, Gavas spent time this summer with Suburban FC. 

“We’re pleased to extend Yorgos’ involvement with our Wanderers to the next level with a first-team development contract,” sporting director Matt Fegan said. “Throughout his time in our environment, he has displayed all the traits in technical ability, maturity, dedication and attitude that are required to perform at a high level in the game. We’re looking forward to helping Yorgos continue his development and learn within our first team squad.”

League roster rules allow clubs to sign up to four Development Permits with Canadian U18 players (born January 1, 2005, or later). Development players can appear in up to six matches in a season.