By the time he turned 23, Samuel Salter had already made Canadian Premier League history, not once, but twice. Born in Laval, the Atlético Ottawa forward became the first CPL player to be transferred between clubs for a fee, and just this July, he etched his name into the franchise record books as their all-time leading scorer.
But Salter’s journey didn’t begin on a professional pitch. Before joining the CF Montréal Academy, he played soccer wherever and whenever he could—with friends, in the streets, or between hockey seasons. His early passion for the sport and his decision to pursue soccer over hockey paved the way for a move to France at just 17, where he matured quickly under pressure.
Now a key offensive figure in the league’s most high-scoring team, Salter is focused on staying grounded, improving daily, and keeping his long-term goal in sight: representing Canada on the international stage.
Samuel Salter, forward for Atlético Ottawa and the club’s all-time leading goal scorer as of July 2025, is a rising star in the Canadian Premier League. | Photography by Sean Sisk.
You grew up in Laval and came through the CF Montréal Academy. What were those early years like, and how did they shape your relationship with the game?
Early on in my life, I just wanted to play soccer with my friends anywhere and anytime I could. Up until I was 11 years old, I was playing hockey during the winters and soccer during the summer. When things got more serious, I stuck with soccer because I was more passionate about it.
Joining the Academy changed everything. The training schedule, the environment, even switching schools… it was all different. We were taught how to act on the field and what kind of discipline you need to be a professional. That definitely shaped me into the player and person I am today.
Did you have a favourite player or team growing up?
Zlatan Ibrahimovic. I read his book and watched all the YouTube videos about him. His style and his character were things I really admired.
When I first started watching soccer, I remember watching Premier League games on TSN. Players like Fernando Torres and Luis Suarez at Liverpool really stuck with me. But Borussia Dortmund was the team I truly supported, and still do. The energy of their fans, the stadium, that 2013 Champions League run… it left a mark on me.
At 17, you moved to France to join Dijon’s U19 squad, later trialing with RC Lens. What was that leap like?
It was really difficult. I had to leave my family and friends behind, but I knew it could help me reach my goal of becoming a professional. Off the field, I had to grow up fast. Living alone, adapting to a new culture, and staying focused taught me resilience and determination.
In 2023, you became the first CPL player to be transferred between clubs for a fee, joining Atlético Ottawa. What did that moment represent for you?
It meant a lot. Being part of CPL history in that way made me feel proud… not just for myself but for the league. I was excited to join a club with ambition. Ottawa had just won the 2022 Regular Season, and I wanted to be part of something competitive.
Being closer to family was also really important. They mean a lot to me, and having them nearby makes a difference.
You’ve grown into a key player for Atlético Ottawa. How has your role evolved within the team?
It’s changed a lot. When I joined, I was still young and lacked experience. What helped me was the support from teammates and coaches. They welcomed me and taught me everything about being a pro here. Now, Ottawa feels like home, and that comfort helps me play with confidence.
Earlier this season, you scored four goals in one match, a new CPL record. What was that game like?
That day was funny. I arrived 30 minutes late because I was stuck on Bank Street. I was rushing through my game prep, and then everything just clicked. It felt like every offensive play would lead to a goal. It was surreal. You don’t get many days like that in your career, so it was definitely special.
What’s been the key to Ottawa’s offensive chemistry this year?
Trust and selflessness. Everyone knows their role and expresses themselves freely. We’ve got a great mix of qualities on the team, and that helps each player shine.
How do you view the CPL now, compared to when you joined?
The CPL is growing fast. The level is higher, the talent is deeper, and there’s more respect for the league inside and outside Canada. Back when I joined, things were still forming. Now it feels like something real, and I’m proud to be part of it.
What are your personal goals for the rest of 2025?
Personally and collectively, the goal is to improve every day and be the best version of ourselves. Long term, one goal I have is to represent the Canadian national team.
What advice do you have for young players in Canada who want to follow in your path?
Stay hungry, stay humble. Talent isn’t enough; you’ve got to work when no one’s watching. And when opportunities come, go all in. Believe in your path, even when it gets hard.
What are some of your favourite places in Ottawa?
Little Italy has a great vibe, and Lansdowne is buzzing on game days. Ottawa has a calm energy that helps me stay grounded. The food scene is great too… it’s a good balance of focus and fun.
If you had a CPL walkout song, what would it be?
“Mirror” by Lil Wayne and Bruno Mars. It’s calm, reflective, and gets me in the zone, just like how I like to play.
What’s something most people don’t know about you? And a skill you wish you had?
Most people don’t know I’m a homebody. I like peace and keeping a low profile. A skill I wish I had? Singing. I really admire people who can express themselves that way.