Top-rated men’s soccer players from Canadian universities coast to coast can earn the opportunity to trial, and potentially sign, with a Canadian Premier League team through the 2026 CPL-U SPORTS Draft, which will take place on Friday, Nov. 28, 2025.

A unique partnership between the Canadian Premier League and U SPORTS since 2018, the CPL-U SPORTS Draft allows student athletes from men’s soccer programs across the country the opportunity to earn professional experience while maintaining their university eligibility.

The 2026 CPL-U SPORTS Draft will include two rounds of selections for each CPL club. Canadian Premier League teams will select in reverse order of the 2025 CPL League Season standings.

The selection order and broadcast details for the 2026 CPL-U SPORTS Draft will be announced at the conclusion of the 2025 CPL League Season, which wraps up after the 2025 CPL Final.

The 2026 CPL-U SPORTS Draft is open to any U SPORTS underclassmen with one to four years of U SPORTS eligibility, provided they are in good standing with their school’s athletic program and educational institution and are planning to return to school the following year.

All players selected may be invited to their prospective club’s preseason training and earn the opportunity to compete for a U SPORTS Contract for the 2026 Canadian Premier League season.

The window to declare for the 2026 CPL-U SPORTS draft is now open. It will close on Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025 at 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT.

By completing the following form, the eligible player is declaring their interest in being drafted. Eligible players must declare, and have agreed to the Non-Disclosure Agreement, by the deadline noted above or they will be formally removed from the draft-eligible pool.

For any further assistance, please contact Alex Saunders, Compliance Officer, Canadian Premier League, at alex.saunders@canpl.ca.

Access our draft **FAQ HERE**