Campbell and Baldisimo saw their playing time in USL plummet after the Vancouver Whitecaps chose to shutter their WFC2 program and instead affiliate with the expansion side, Fresno FC, in 2018. 

Rob Friend, sports director for Pacific FC, said that when he and coach Michael Silberbauer discussed the need for a target man, it was Haber’s name that jumped to the forefront.

The task is daunting. The CanPL coaches are building a soccer league in a country that has never really embraced one. Success on the field, in the stands, and with player development may be elusive for years.

Silberbauer said the existing relationship with Simpson was a big factor in him taking the job. “It’s important, for sure, that this came from someone you can trust, who you don’t have to background check at all. I know what he’s about, and when he talks, I listen.”