Peter Schaale is going back to school after HFX Wanderers FC’s next game.
The 23-year-old defender will return to Cape Breton University to complete his business degree after Saturday’s home game against Cavalry FC. This was the plan all along for Schaale and the team is already in discussion with him about returning next season.
“He’s adapted well,” Wanderers head coach Stephen Hart said in a news release. “Peter has been a big part of the team both on and off the field. We’re sad to see him go but we do believe his education is important.”
The six-foot-three centre back served as team captain on several occasions and was a steady presence on Halifax’s defence, appearing in 21 Canadian Premier League and Canadian Championship games.
“It’s been a great experience for me getting my first professional minutes and things have turned out well for my own development and I enjoyed every bit of it,” Schaale said in a news release.
Schaale is from Germany but played the past three seasons for the Capers, winning three straight AUS championships and a national title in 2017. He also helped the Capers win a national silver medal last year when he was the AUS most valuable player. The Wanderers picked him fifth overall in the inaugural U SPORTS draft.
“I have a good feeling in Halifax and the bond I have with the fans is very special,” Schaale said in a news release. “The community has supported me and given me confidence as well as all the coaching staff and everyone at the club.”
The Wanderers announced they are working to find a replacement for Schaale and hope to have something finalized soon. Their game on Saturday is scheduled for 2 p.m. and will be broadcast on CBC. Halifax is 2-5-0 in the Fall Competition and Cavalry is 3-0-1.
“I don’t want to go out on the wrong feeling,” Schaale said in a news release. “I will leave it all on the pitch again one last time and I know the crowd will be cheering loud and I’m really looking forward to it.”
