UBC, Mount Royal top 2026 Canada West Men's Soccer Coaches Poll

Aug. 26, 2026 – After meeting in the Canada West final for three straight seasons, it's no surprise that perennial conference heavyweights UBC and Mount Royal once again sit atop the preseason rankings.

The conference has revealed the results of its 2026 men's soccer coaches poll ahead of Thursday's season-opening action, with the UBC Thunderbirds topping the poll with eight first place votes. The Thunderbirds narrowly edged defending conference champion Mount Royal, who earned five first-place nods.

Victoria finished third, while Calgary and Fraser Valley rounded out the top five.

The 2026 Canada West season kicks off tomorrow afternoon with a four-game slate, beginning with a Crowchild Classic battle between MRU and Calgary (4:30 p.m. MT). That game will be followed by Trinity Western visiting UBCO, Thompson Rivers hosting Victoria, and a semifinal rematch between Fraser Valley and UBC.

Fans can watch the clash between Trinity Western and UBCO for free on Canada West TV - Powered by BioSteel, part of a new "Game of the Week" promotion that will see one free Canada West game offered each week on the platform. Kick off is set for 5 p.m. PT.

Three more games follow Saturday, before a full slate of games next week.

Can the T-Birds and Cougars continue their dominance?

The UBC Thunderbirds and Mount Royal Cougars have combined to win the past eight Canada West championships, with the teams alternating titles over the past three seasons. Mount Royal reclaimed the crown last year after a dramatic 1-0 victory over UBC in the CW Final. The Cougars rode that momentum all the way to the program’s first U SPORTS championship game appearance, where they eventually fell to York in heartbreaking fashion.

MRU is excited to unveil its recently renovated Stadium Field and will have its sights set on breaking through for a national championship.

"With a number of new recruits joining the group, there is a lot to look forward to as we continue to build together and learn from the challenges the league presents," says Cougars head coach Ryan Gyaki. "We’re also looking forward to playing on Mount Royal’s new field and hope to make the most of the opportunity with a successful season.”

The perennial powerhouse Thunderbirds will once again be among the teams to beat, led by team captain Eric Lajeunesse, who returns for his fifth and final season.

"Our team will return many starting players from the 2025 team, so we should be a strong and experienced team again for the coming season," says UBC head coach Mike Mosher, who enters his 31st campaign leading the T-Birds.

All roads this season lead to the west coast, as the Victoria Vikes will host the 2026 U SPORTS National Championships Nov. 12 to 15. Led by a strong defensive unit centered around Pacific FC draft picks Fin and Archie Tugwell, expect the Vikes to be in contention for a conference title and a national crown.

Finishing fourth in the poll, don't overlook a youthful Calgary Dinos side. Head coach Ramon Mifflin enters his third campaign with the program and will be overseeing a significantly younger roster in 2026 that features 14 first-year players. The Dinos will count on a strong returning core that includes former Canada West All-Star and All-Rookie honourees Efe Udolu-Joshua, William Omoreniye, and Joey Plenzik.

If there’s one player to watch in Canada West this season, it’s reigning U SPORTS Player of the Year Mateo Brazinha. The back-to-back Canada West Player of the Year enters his fifth season looking to help the Cascades finally break through and claim a conference title. With Vancouver FC draft pick Matheus De Souza also returning in goal, Fraser Valley has all the pieces to emerge as a serious title contender.

Fans can catch all the action on CanadaWest.TV - Presented by BioSteel, with All-Access and Regular Season Sport Passes now available for purchase. The conference's official streaming service now has mobile apps for Apple and Android, in addition to a full suite of Connected TV apps including Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV and Roku.

2026 CW Men's Soccer Coaches Poll 

Team - Points (First-place votes)

TEAM BY TEAM PREVIEW

UBC Thunderbirds

2026 Coaches Poll Rank: #1

Team Overview: Coming off a historic season that saw the T-Birds set a Canada West record with 15 wins while also going undefeated until the conference final, the team enters 2026 with the bulk of their core back and hungry to return to championship form.

Last year's top five point producers are all back this season, as are many pieces of the country's leading defence - including captain Eric Lajeunesse, as well as all three goalkeepers. Combined with a highly skilled recruit class, the Thunderbirds will once again contend for a Canada West championship in 2026.

From the coach: "Our team will return many starting players from the 2025 team so we should be a strong and experienced team again for the coming season. Team captain Eric Lajeunesse returns for his fifth and final season and will lead a strong backline. Some of the keys for this team will be to maintain consistency, be healthy and to look to peak and be ready come playoffs and big games at the end of the season.” - Mike Mosher

Key Performer: Eric Lajeunesse

Defender | 5th Year | Ottawa, Ont.

A three-time All-Canadian defender and former U SPORTS Rookie of the year recipient, Eric is the beating heart of the Thunderbirds and a critical piece to the best defending team in all of U SPORTS last season. Playing every minute of every game in 2025 and named a U SPORTS Championship All-Star for the second straight year, Eric's stellar play and leadership has been a massive part of the T-Birds' success over his four years with the team.

Mount Royal Cougars

2026 Coaches Poll Rank: #2

Team Overview: The Mount Royal University Cougars enter the 2026 season with clear championship expectations after winning the Canada West title and earning silver at the U SPORTS National Championship in 2025.

With a strong defensive foundation, returning offensive leaders in Chanan Chanda and Jonathan Walter, and fifth-year captain Alex Kemsley anchoring the backline, the Cougars have the experience to contend for another conference championship and return to the national championship game. Head coach Ryan Gyaki enters his 12th season with a talented roster that includes 11 newcomers, and the team will look to integrate its young players while maintaining the standard established by last year’s championship group.

From the coach: “We’re looking forward to getting the season underway and competing in a strong and increasingly competitive U SPORTS league, with talented players and excellent coaching staffs across the country. With a number of new recruits joining the group, there is a lot to look forward to as we continue to build together and learn from the challenges the league presents. We’re also looking forward to playing on Mount Royal’s new field and hope to make the most of the opportunity with a successful season.” - Ryan Gyaki

Key Performer: Alex Kemsley

Defender | 5th Year | Axbridge, United Kingdom

Fifth-year captain and defender Alex Kemsley returns to lead a Cougars backline that ranked third in Canada West with just 14 goals allowed last season. After starting all 14 regular-season matches in 2025, Kemsley brings valuable experience and leadership to a team looking to defend its Canada West championship and make another deep run at the U SPORTS Championship.

Victoria Vikes

2026 Coaches Poll Rank: #3

Team Overview: As hosts of the 2026 U SPORTS Championship, the Vikes will look to build on a strong 2025 season and become a contender for the national title. With last year's key performer Matthew Pearse out for the season after suffering a torn ACL, the Vikes will rely on new faces to carry the offensive load. The defensive unit of Victoria is once again centered around Pacific FC draft picks Fin and Archie Tugwell. This backline will need to be a strong point for the Vikes as they look to find success in the loaded Canada West conference.

From the coach: “The Vikes will be looking to build off a strong 2025 season with numerous returning players coming back for their last season. Some good recruits will add reinforcements to the squad which will look to play an attacking style of soccer. The keys to success for the Vikes will be their ability to perform consistently and remain healthy over the duration of the season.” - Larry Stefanek

Key Performer: Matteo Hilton

Midfield | 4th Year | Sidney, B.C.

Matteo has emerged as a key in the Vikes' midfield and leader of the team. His passing range and work rate will be key attributes for the Vikes this upcoming season. ​

Calgary Dinos

2026 Coaches Poll Rank: #4

Team Overview: After fielding a veteran side in each of his first two seasons at the helm, Ramon Mifflin enters his third campaign with the Dinos overseeing a significantly younger roster. The 2026 squad features 14 first-year players, who will be supported by a strong returning core that includes former Canada West All-Star and All-Rookie honourees Efe Udolu-Joshua, William Omoreniye, and Joey Plenzik. Calgary will need to replace the offence of Owen Antoniuk, who earned a standard CPL contract with Cavalry FC following a strong summer.

The Dinos will look to come together quickly, and Mifflin's familiarity with much of the young roster should help. The majority of the team's newcomers have experience playing together with Mifflin at Alberta Premier League's Calgary Blizzard, providing the Dinos with some valuable built-in chemistry heading into the season.

From the coach: “After losing 12 players from last season, we will enter the new season with a fresh-look squad that combines experienced veterans with an exciting group of new players. While there will be some changes to our roster, we believe we have the right balance of experience, talent, and potential to compete at a high level.” - Ramon Mifflin

Key Performer: Joey Plenzik

Defender | 5th Year | Calgary, Alta.

Fifth-year defender Joey Plenzik enters the 2026 season playing at a high level – and when he is at his best, he elevates the play of the entire team. A former Canada West First Team All-Star, Plenzik takes over as captain this season, succeeding his brother Gianmarco. His leadership will be crucial as the Dinos welcome 13 newcomers to the roster.

Fraser Valley Cascades

2026 Coaches Poll Rank: #5

Team Overview: After seeing their season come to an end with a heartbreaking extra time loss in the Canada West semifinal for the second consecutive year, the Cascades have their sights set on climbing even higher in 2026. With reigning U SPORTS player of the year Mateo Brazinha returning for his fifth year, and Vancouver FC draft pick Matheus De Souza returning in goal, UFV will have their sights set high. Bolstered by a number of talented incoming players their squad will look to avenge last season's playoff defeat when they open their season on the road against UBC.

From the coach: “We are looking to build on the success of a CW Final Four appearance last season. [The] attacking power of CW Player of the Year Mateo Brazinha will be key in UFV having a strong season. Defensively, third year Adam Szymanski and rookie goalkeeper Matheus De Souza will be instrumental in our push to have a successful season.” - Tom Lowndes

Key Performer: Mateo Brazinha

Striker | 5th Year | Port Coquitlam, B.C.

The back-to-back Canada West men's soccer player of the year, and last season's U SPORTS men's soccer player of the year, is back for his fifth year with the UFV Cascades. After leading the conference in goals and points for the second season in a row, the UFV captain will look to once again be the offensive focal point for the team.

Alberta Golden Bears

2026 Coaches Poll Rank: #6

Team Overview: Boasting a deep and talented roster, 2026 is primed to be a strong season for the perennial contender Golden Bears. Bringing back a majority of the roster that finished second in team defence in 2025, the expected improvement from their forwards, combined with an excellent recruiting class should see Alberta near the top of the table this fall.

From the coach: “A strong core of returning players are ready to lead the team and compete for the top places in a competitive CW. Our key to success lies in our veteran defensive group providing a solid platform for the team to attack games and earn points every weekend. In attack, there are a number of players that have the opportunity to emerge as difference makers and lead the team going forward.” - Martin Fenger-Andersen

Key Performer: Frankroy Cain

Midfield | 4th Year | Edmonton, Alta.

A strong core of returning players complemented by a talented group of young players give the Golden Bears the experience and hunger needed to compete at the highest level and look to climb the table. Among the key returning Bears is leading scorer Frankroy Cain. A dynamic and speedy offensive threat, Cain is poised for a breakout season in 2026.

Trinity Western Spartans

2026 Coaches Poll Rank: #7

Team Overview: The Spartans are looking to improve on last year's performance and move further into the postseason. TWU has several new faces and will see the return of Jordan Low to anchor the midfield after missing most of last season with an injury. Rookie keeper Jakob Frank will look to backstop the Spartans' defence this season.

From the coach: “As always we play in a tough division and conference. We will need our older players to step up and contribute in key moments while our young ones catch up to the level.” - Mike Shearon

Key Performer: Jordan Low

Midfield | 5th Year | Port Moody, BC

Jordan has put in tremendous work over the last 10 months to be ready for his final season. He is counted on to lead the team with competitiveness, intelligence, and example. He can set up goals, score goals, and is one the Spartans' best players without the ball. He is one of the top players in Canada West for his overall well-rounded ability.

Lethbridge Pronghorns

2026 Coaches Poll Rank: #8

Team Overview: The Pronghorns enter the season hungry, competitive and ready to embrace the challenge of facing some of Canada West’s top teams. With a blend of young, international and veteran talent, the team brings a strong mix of skill, experience and competitiveness. After a season of growth, the Pronghorns are looking to build on that foundation, prove they belong and make their mark in Canada West.

From the coach: “We are ready for the challenges Canada West brings, home and away. We have a hungry group of players who are eager to get going together. We will accept the challenge of being an underdog in most of the matches we play. Our key will be to use every day as an opportunity to grow together and get ready for the next challenge.” - Christopher McKaig

Key Performer: Ben Gingras

Midfield | 5th Year | Edmonton, Alta.

Ben is the captain of the team and will be counted on to provide an impactful presence in the midfield. His experience, leadership and determination to succeed are invaluable assets to a Horns team looking to take the next step in the Canada West postseason.

Thompson Rivers WolfPack

2026 Coaches Poll Rank: #9

Team Overview: With 15 new faces joining the fold for 2026, the WolfPack will be looking to a combination of experience and youth to drive them forward this season. Eyeing a return to the CW postseason, TRU will supplement a strong returning core with a number of exciting additions that already boast playing experience at high levels of the sport.

From the coach: “We are a young squad that will be looking to take the next steps forward from our 2025 season. Good returning core, with key personnel returning from early season ending injuries will help reinforce the group.” - John Antulov

Key Performer: Lucas Kirnon

Midfield | 3rd Year | Preston, ENG

A true box-to-box midfielder, Kirnon will be relied upon to control the middle of the pitch for the WolfPack this coming season. Joining TRU in 2024, Kirnon played in 813 minutes while starting ten games as a rookie before missing the 2025-26 campaign due to injury. Originally from Preston, ENG the midfielder has represented the nation of Montserrat at the senior international level.

Saskatchewan Huskies

2026 Coaches Poll Rank: #10

Team Overview: Thanks to another strong recruiting class and a balanced leadership group who have quickly taken a hold of guiding the team’s young athletes, the Huskies are poised to take a step forward in 2026. One of the deepest groups the program has seen in recent memory, the current makeup of the roster should allow the Huskies to navigate a tough Canada West conference. This will set them up well to work towards the team goal of earning a spot in the conference postseason and giving themselves the chance to put a playoff run together.

From the coach: “With another exciting group of recruits to build off last year's incoming class and really strong 5th year class the Huskies look to continue to climb the conference standings. The Huskies are wanting to play a high energy, disciplined style of play that will make it tough for any opponent. Keys to our success will be the strong leadership of our senior class and our young players adjusting to the always tough Canada West conference.” - Bryce Chapman

Key Performer: Jaron Slopinski

Goalkeeper | 5th Year | Saskatoon, Sask.

A proven leader and experienced competitor, Jaron will be a crucial figure for the team this season, impacting every game the Huskies take the pitch for. His calm demeanour under pressure and experience in high-stakes matches give the back line confidence, while his presence and communication help anchor the entire defensive unit.

UNBC Timberwolves

2026 Coaches Poll Rank: #11

Team Overview: The 2026 UNBC Timberwolves are going to be a young and fearless club that is going to be a tough out for any of their Canada West foes. Steve Simonson has added several young, talented pieces to his club and they'll be well insulated by a quality group of returning veterans who prioritize positivity and building a sustained culture of success. A few growing pains may be inevitable with this group, but teams expecting a smooth and easy 90 minute match with UNBC will be in for a rude awakening in 2026.

Key Performer: James Jordan

Midfielder | 4th Year | Richmond, B.C.

During his first three seasons at UNBC, Jordan has been a true Swiss-army knife type player for Steve Simonson's squad. Offensively, Jordan's pace, play-making, and finishing ability are all factors while defensively he's proven to be a reliable, relentless contributor as well. His veteran leadership will be a big factor considering the massive influx of young talent on the 2026 Timberwolves side.

MacEwan Griffins

2026 Coaches Poll Rank: #12

Team Overview: Returning to the Canada West playoffs for the first time since 2021 will be top of mind for the Griffins in 2026. Although their 2-7-5 record last season may not indicate it, they were a challenge for the top teams in the conference, including when they outplayed eventual champ Mount Royal at home last September, only to lose 2-0 after running into a hot goalkeeper.

With a solid group of returning veterans, bolstered by a recruiting class that includes late-2025 addition, former CPL pro Paul Amedume, and prized 2024 recruit Sacre Musa, who has returned from playing in Portugal, the Griffins are primed to continue their momentum in 2026.

From the coach: “We are excited about the upcoming season and the potential of this group. With a strong mix of returning players and new talent, we are focused on creating a competitive environment that challenges everyone to grow and contribute. Our goal is to play with confidence, compete at a high level, and continue building a program that student-athletes are proud to be part of.” - Adam Loga

Key Performer: T-boy Fayia

Defender | 4th Year | Edmonton, Alta.

Last season's Canada West student-athlete community service award winner continues to lead the Griffins both on and off the pitch. The electric fullback, who previously played professionally for FC Edmonton, won Griffins men's soccer's most outstanding player award for the 2025-26 season and is primed to bring his speedy, play-driving, high IQ game to MacEwan's back line again in 2026.

UBCO Heat

2026 Coaches Poll Rank: #13

Team Overview: The Heat are looking to return to the postseason for the first time since 2016. To do so, they will look to an infusion of international talent, adding Mosi Klusman from the Netherlands and Ian Ballantyne from Australia. They will be joined by veteran goalkeeper Ronan Woodroffe and a strong backline featuring Charlie Prefontaine, who started every game as a first-year centre back last season, as well as welcoming back Ian Klumpen from injury.

If the preseason is any indication, there is reason for optimism in Kelowna, as the Heat fell just 1-0 to Mount Royal, last year’s national silver medallists, in an exhibition match.

From the Coach: “With the influx of new players returning for injury and transfers we should be taking the step to qualify for playoffs. Key players will be Ronan Woodroffe, the returning of Ian Klumpen and Mosi Klusman, a first year striker from Holland.” - Dante Zanatta

Key Performer: Ronan Woodroffe

Goalkeeper | 5th Year | Toronto, Ont.

Woodroffe returns for his fifth and final season with the Heat and will be counted on to provide stability and leadership in goal. Last year's Canada West saves leader has been the team’s starting goalkeeper since arriving in Kelowna in 2022.