Joel Waterman Bio
Joel Robert Waterman is a Canadian soccer player who plays as a centre-back, right-back or defensive midfielder for Chicago Fire of Major League Soccer and the Canada national team. Waterman began his soccer journey at a young age, playing with Aldergrove Youth SC and later joining Langley United and Surrey United SC. He had a successful college career at Trinity Western University, where he was named team captain and led his team to significant achievements, including a Canada West silver medal. Waterman has played with several professional teams, and he made history by being the first player sold from the Canadian Premier League to an MLS club when he transferred to CF Montréal.
Early Life and Background
Joel Waterman was born on January 24, 1996, in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada. He began playing soccer at the age of five with Aldergrove Youth SC. At the age of 12, he joined Langley United, and later he played with Surrey United SC. Waterman made the British Columbia provincial team when he was 13 years old. In 2013, he represented British Columbia at the Canada Summer Games and had a brief trial with the Vancouver Whitecaps Academy, although he did not make the squad.
Path to Soccer
In 2014, Waterman began attending Trinity Western University, where he played for the men’s soccer team. He committed to the team while still in Grade 11 and was named team captain ahead of his fifth season. Under his leadership, the team won a Canada West silver medal and finished fourth at the National Championship. He was also recognized as a Canada West First Team All-Star during that season, showcasing his talent on a larger stage.
Joel Waterman Career
Early Career (2016–2018)
Waterman’s professional career began in 2016 when he played for the Kitsap Pumas in the US-based Premier Development League, making eleven league appearances and participating in two US Open Cup matches. In 2017, he joined TSS FC Rovers, where he continued to develop his skills and made eleven appearances. The following year, he played for Calgary Foothills, contributing to their success by making fourteen league appearances and three playoff appearances, helping the team win the PDL Championship.
Breakthrough (2019–2020)
Waterman’s breakthrough came when he was drafted by Cavalry FC during the 2018 CPL–U Sports Draft. He officially signed with the club on February 6, 2019, and made his professional debut in their inaugural game against York9 FC on May 4. Waterman scored his first goal for Cavalry on October 5 against HFX Wanderers FC, playing a crucial role in helping the team win both the Spring and Fall championships. In December 2019, it was announced that Waterman would return to Cavalry for the 2020 season.
Notable Works and Milestones
In January 2020, Waterman made history by transferring to Major League Soccer club CF Montréal, becoming the first player sold from the Canadian Premier League to an MLS club. He made his debut for the Impact on February 19 in a CONCACAF Champions League match and his MLS debut on February 29 against the New England Revolution. During the 2022 season, he became a regular starter for the club and scored his first goal for Montreal against Orlando City on May 7.
Chicago Fire (2025–Present)
In August 2025, Waterman was traded to Chicago Fire FC in exchange for $500,000 in General Allocation Money and $100,000 in performance-based money. This move marks a new chapter in his career as he continues to compete at a high level in Major League Soccer.
Joel Waterman Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Joel Waterman has received recognition for his performances on the field, although specific nominations have not been detailed in the available information.
Joel Waterman Awards Won
Joel Waterman has achieved notable success in his career, including winning a Canada West silver medal during his time at Trinity Western University. However, specific awards won have not been detailed in the available information.
Joel Waterman Family
Information regarding Joel Waterman’s family is not publicly available or verifiable at this time.
Personal Life
Details about Joel Waterman’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly available or verifiable at this time.