The Canadian Premier League (CPL) 2025 U SPORTS Draft proved to be a pivotal event for Pacific FC, as the club secured two standout players from British Columbia. Victoria’s Niklas Hallam and North Vancouver’s Fin Tugwell are set to join the team’s developmental roster, marking an exciting new chapter in their soccer journeys.
Hallam, a 19-year-old forward, and Tugwell, a 21-year-old defender, were among the 16 athletes chosen by CPL clubs from universities across Canada. Pacific FC head coach James Merriman expressed confidence in the duo, emphasizing their potential to make a significant impact in Canadian soccer.
Niklas Hallam, the fourth overall pick in the first round, is a Victoria native who has demonstrated exceptional skill throughout his young career. A graduate of Reynolds Secondary School, Hallam was instrumental in leading his high school team to three consecutive provincial championships. Transitioning to university-level play, he represented the University of Toronto in 2024, scoring an impressive 10 goals in 13 games during his debut season. Hallam is no stranger to Pacific FC, having previously trained with the club’s youth development program, Vancouver Island Wave.
“We’ve watched Niklas grow within our system, and his performance at Toronto this year showed his readiness for the next step,” Merriman remarked. “We’re thrilled to welcome him back and see how he evolves in our environment.”
Joining Hallam is six-foot-three defender Fin Tugwell, a leader on and off the field. Originally from North Vancouver, Tugwell has been a key player for the University of Victoria, earning accolades such as the 2024 Canada West Defensive Player of the Year and two Canada West All-Star titles. Known for his calm demeanor and strategic play, Tugwell brings valuable experience and a commanding presence to Pacific FC’s defense.
“Fin’s composure and leadership qualities make him a natural fit for our team,” said Merriman. “He’s shown remarkable consistency and has the potential to excel as a central defender in the CPL.”
Both players now have the chance to train with Pacific FC during preseason and compete for a spot on the team’s 2025 roster. This opportunity is part of the CPL’s broader commitment to nurturing young Canadian talent and providing them with pathways to professional soccer.
As Hallam and Tugwell step into this exciting phase, fans and teammates alike are eager to see how these homegrown talents will shape the future of Pacific FC and Canadian soccer.
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