Five OUA student-athletes selected in 2026 CPL-U SPORTS Draft
Burlington, Ont. – Five OUA students-athletes were selected by the Canadian Premier League's eight member clubs during the 2026 CPL-U SPORTS Draft, presented by Degree, on Friday afternoon, with TMU Bold defender Noah Bickford going eighth overall to the forge FC.
Noah Bickford, TMU Bold
Round 1, Pick 8 – Forge FC
Bickford was a key figure in the TMU Bold’s backline this season. He started in nine contests propelling the Bold to a 8-1-3 record with four clean sheets.
He also contributed on the offensive end, scoring two goals, while being a strong threat on set pieces. The top OUA draft pick this year also becomes the fourth player from the TMU Bold to be drafted.
Gabriel Tardif, Brock Badgers
Round 1, Pick 9 – Atlético Ottawa
Tardif, the second-year midfielder, had a strong season with the Badgers. Playing a pivotal role in the midfield, he started in nine games and scored two goals.
The Hammond, Ont. native's efforts were honoured in the form of an OUA second team all-star selection. This marks the first time that a Brock men’s soccer player has been drafted to the CPL.
Michael Williams, York Lions
Round 2, Pick 3 – Inter Toronto FC
The first-year goalkeeper is coming off an incredible season with the Lions. He made nine appearances during the regular season and started two of the Lions three OUA playoff games. Williams went undefeated in the regular season, going 7-0-2, while posting a 1-1 record in the postseason. For his outstanding performance he was awarded a OUA first team all-star.
The Kingston, Ont. product helped the York Lions capture the U SPORTS championship, stopping all but one of the shots he faced.
Luc Ihama, TMU Bold
Round 2, Pick 5 – Cavalry FC
Ihama, in his second season with the Bold, made nine starts this year at full back. The Barrie, Ont. native was a huge threat on the right side of the pitch.
He was crucial in helping TMU secure second place in the OUA East with a solid 8-1-3 record and a bye to the conference quarterfinals.
Joseph Daher, Carleton Ravens
Round 2, Pick 7 – Atlético Ottawa
Daher, the third-year local product, quickly became a top midfielder this season for the Ravens. He was a consistent presence for Carleton, leading them to a 6-1-5 overall record and an OUA semifinal finish, where they fell in penalties to the York Lions.
