- Former U SPORTS standout becomes 4th U20 player on Nine Stripes roster
- Adrian Ugarizza and York9 FC Mutually Terminate Contract
Toronto, ON (July 6, 2020) – York9 FC is pleased to announce the signing of Isaiah Johnston to a full professional contract with club options to the end of the 2022 season. Johnston was the club’s 2019 CPL-U SPORTS draft pick from Cape Breton University, where he was named the conference’s rookie of the year.
Managing Consultant Angus McNab said: “we are delighted he has chosen to sign his first professional contract with the club. I’m sure he’s going to thrive in our environment, and we’re delighted to secure him on a long-term deal”
Johnston added “Being able to sign my first pro contract while still being able to play near my hometown is a huge deal to me. Especially because my family and friends can continue to be there to support me through this journey. I am excited to grow, learn and develop under some of the best Canadian players.
“To my parents, thank you! Your never-ending encouragement support and dedication to my dreams helped make this possible. To my family and friends, trainers and coaches, thank you for your support and belief in me. Of course, I’d like to thank my club for this incredible opportunity to further my career along some of the best in the nation.”
The club can also confirm that following an approach by Adrian Ugarizza and his representatives, they have mutually agreed to terminate the Peruvian forward’s contract and he leaves the club with immediate effect.
McNab said: “We are really disappointed that Adrian will not be joining up with the squad. After his approach, we explored every option. We chatted to Adrian and his representatives and it became clear the best chance he had to take to the pitch in 2020 was back home in Peru. With the current COVID-19 situation a loan did not look attractive to clubs in Peru so the decision was made to release Adrian from his contract.
There is a human side to this, and at his age he needs to play and we can’t offer that right now. It is a very unfortunate situation and we thank Adrian for his professionalism and maturity – the way he represented himself he will be an asset wherever he goes. York is his club now and I still hope one day he can represent the Nine Stripes.”
Ugarizza added: “I was really looking forward to joining York – particularly after meeting the guys and staff in Florida. It is a very strange situation right now and I thank the club for their compassion and allowing my release. I wish the club all the best and will be Peru’s biggest York9 fan.”
Player bio:
Full Name: Isaiah Johnston
Pronunciation: Eye-zay-ah John-ston
Age: 18
Position: Midfielder
Birth Date: August 14, 2001
Height: 5’11
Hometown: Milton, ON
Nationality: Canadian
Last Club: Cape Breton Capers