In yet another testament to the power of football and the pathway Vancouver FC is building for young Canadian talent, we proudly announce the transfer of local standout James Cameron to Major League Soccer’s Colorado Rapids for an undisclosed fee, with sell-on rights secured.

For many in the Vancouver footballing community, this is not just another transfer—it is a moment of pride, a celebration of a homegrown talent who has risen through the ranks, from local fields to the professional stage. Cameron’s story embodies everything we believe in at Vancouver FC: opportunity, development, and the unwavering commitment to nurturing young players for the highest levels of the game.

At Vancouver FC, we have always believed that our role is bigger than just competing on the pitch—we are here to develop, showcase, and elevate Canadian footballers to the highest levels. James Cameron’s transfer is yet another example of our club’s commitment to building bridges between grassroots football and the top tiers of the game.

Selling another young, local talent to an MLS organization further solidifies our mission. James follows in the footsteps of others who have transitioned from Vancouver FC to greater opportunities, reinforcing the club’s standing as a key developmental hub within the Canadian Premier League.

Vancouver FC has quickly become the club where the best young talent is being farmed and moved on to bigger opportunities. If you are an ambitious player looking to grow in the game, this is the place to be. Our environment, coaching staff, and commitment to development provide the perfect conditions for talent to thrive. Rob Friend put it best: “The path is clear: start here, grow here, and move on to the biggest stages in football.”

With sell-on rights secured, our investment in James does not end here. Vancouver FC head coach Afshin Ghotbi praised Cameron’s dedication and growth, stating, “It has been an incredible journey for James Cameron at Vancouver FC. He started his humble beginnings at our combine back in December 2022, and through his relentless effort, fighting spirit, and mental toughness, he has become one of the best teenagers in the CPL and the U20 Canadian national team. I truly believe that James will continue his development in MLS and reach even greater heights in the near future.”

We will continue to track his journey, support his progress, and celebrate his achievements as he takes on this new challenge in the MLS. Further emphasizing Cameron’s potential, Brian Crookham, Director of Player Personnel at Colorado Rapids, remarked, “He has proven to be a competitor that has the profile of a right back that can be a future contributor to our first team.”

James Cameron’s rise to the professional level is not a tale of luck but of relentless effort and belief. His journey has been marked by key milestones, each demonstrating his growth and impact on the game. His journey with Vancouver FC started in the most humble of ways—attending the club’s first-ever open trials. A Christmas gift from his father, who paid the sign-up fee, turned into the opportunity of a lifetime. What a gift it has turned out to be.

Born on January 24, 2005, in North Vancouver, British Columbia, James began his soccer journey with local clubs, including North Vancouver FC, Mountain United FC, and Blaise Soccer Academy. His dedication and talent were evident early on, leading him to represent British Columbia at the 2022 Canada Summer Games, where he contributed to a commendable fifth-place finish.

In January 2023, he attended Vancouver FC’s open trials, earning an invitation to the club’s preseason in February. By May, he signed his first Development Contract, officially beginning his journey as a professional footballer. His impressive performance during the February 2023 trials earned him a developmental contract with Vancouver FC in May 2023. He also gained experience with their League1 British Columbia affiliate, Unity FC.

On June 11, 2023, James rosters for Vancouver FC for the first time and makes his club debut against Cavalry FC away from home. Just days later, on June 17, he earned his first start against Atlético Ottawa, followed by his home debut on June 20 at Willoughby Community Park, where he played a key role in Vancouver FC’s first-ever home win, a 2-0 victory over Forge FC.

His performances continued to shine, earning him a full professional contract under the Exceptional Young Talent provision on July 20, 2023. James continued to impress, earning Gatorade Performance of the Match honors on August 6, 2023, for his role in a clean sheet against Valour FC, and was named to the Week 17 Gatorade Team of the Week on August 8. On September 9, 2023, he scored his first professional goal, a stoppage-time game-winner against Atlético Ottawa.

James Cameron wins it at the death!

Relive the storybook ending to last nights match against Atletico Ottawa! #VancouverFC #CanPL | @CPLsoccer pic.twitter.com/nfEKS0qGIS

— Vancouver FC (@vanfootballclub) September 10, 2023

James’s talent was further recognized with his nomination for CPL U21 Player of the Year on October 17, 2023, and for the CPL Fan Awards U-21 Inspirational Moment on November 30, 2023. He then embarked on trials with Premier League and Championship sides, including Luton Town, in late 2023.

His rising prominence led to a call-up to the Canada U20 team on February 12, 2024, for the CONCACAF Under-20 Championship qualifiers, where he played a crucial role in helping Canada qualify on February 27, 2024. He was later called up again for the main tournament on July 11, 2024. He continued to represent his country in the main tournament that July. Seeking to broaden his horizons, James embarked on training stints with English Premier League clubs, including Luton Town and Burnley, in late 2023.

His outstanding contributions to Vancouver FC were recognized when he was awarded VFC U21 Player of the Year on November 5, 2024. Despite Vancouver FC picking up his contract option on January 15, 2025, James’s development attracted the attention of Major League Soccer, leading to his transfer to Colorado Rapids 2 on February 28, 2025. James Cameron’s move is more than just a transfer—it is a signal to every young player in British Columbia that hard work and dedication can open doors to the highest levels of football. From the local fields of North Vancouver to the professional ranks of the CPL and beyond, his story is an inspiration.

As he takes the next step with Colorado Rapids, we wish James nothing but success. We know he will make his mark, not only as a talented footballer but as an ambassador of Vancouver FC and the entire Canadian soccer community.

For every young player dreaming of a professional career, James Cameron’s journey proves that the pathway is alive and thriving. Vancouver FC remains committed to being the bridge between grassroots football and the global stage, and we cannot wait to see who follows in James’ footsteps next.

There are several other stars in the making at Vancouver FC, James and Grady have made the jump, who will be next? Don’t miss your chance to see the next rising star in the 2025 season with a Vancouver FC season ticket. Be there for the action and make history with us once more!

Win James’ Final Game Worn Jersey! Click HERE for more details.