VICTORIA - Fourth-year University of Victoria defender
Archie Tugwell is headed to the professional ranks after being drafted fourth overall by Pacific FC of the Canadian Premier League on Nov. 28, in the 2025 CPL–U SPORTS Draft.
"I'm excited for Archie, I think he's going to do well. He's just a versatile player, he's good in possession, at building attacks, and he has qualities that are hard to teach like intercepting passes and ball recovery," said UVic head coach,
Larry Stefanek. "Much like his brother [Fin], he's athletic, has good size, he's good in the air, and he has an excellent understanding of the game."
Tugwell, stands six-foot-three and hails from North Vancouver. He appeared in 14 matches for the men's soccer team this past season, contributing two goals while anchoring the Vikes backline. Now in his fourth year with the program, he played a key role in guiding the team to the Canada West semifinal.
Archie is the younger brother of
Fin Tugwell, whom Pacific selected 12th overall in last year's CPL–U SPORTS Draft. The eldest Tugwell featured in four matches for the club in 2025, and Pacific has retained his playing rights for the upcoming campaign.
"Archie has size and good balance, and he's comfortable playing through pressure and has a range of passing and technical ability," said PFC head coach James Merriman. "He has good potential and, most importantly, a great attitude and mentality."
As UVic gears up to host the 2026 U SPORTS Men's Soccer Championship, having both Tugwell brothers back in the lineup next season positions the Vikes to make a serious run at the national crown.
For [Archie] Tugwell, he says it's a chance to test himself in a pro environment, grow as a player, and take the next step in his career.
"I've put a lot into my development, so having that recognized is pretty special," said Tugwell.
"Watching my brother with PFC last season, the biggest thing he talked about was how much faster and sharper everything was. The level pushes you to tidy up your decisions and stay switched on all the time. I want to bring that edge back to the Vikes and help raise the standard in our group."
The CPL-U SPORTS Draft is open to any U SPORTS underclassmen with one to four years of U SPORTS eligibility remaining, 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.
Once selected, players may be invited to pre-season training with their prospective club, where they can compete for a roster spot for the 2025 CPL season.
Based in nearby Langford, B.C., Pacific FC is actively strengthening its ties with UVic soccer to create a clear pathway for local players to grow and be identified by the club.
