Calgary's professional footie side, Cavalry FC, has bolstered its roster with two promising selections in the 2026 CPL-U SPORTS Draft, securing forward Emmanuel Dan-Adokiene and defender Luc Ihama.
First-Round Pick: Hometown Talent
In the first round of Friday's draft, Cavalry FC used the seventh overall pick to select 21-year-old forward Emmanuel Dan-Adokiene. The Calgary native is a product of the local Calgary Foothills development system, bringing a hometown connection to the club.
Dan-Adokiene continued his soccer career at Trinity Western University in British Columbia, where he enrolled in September 2024. His immediate impact was recognized when he earned a spot on the Canada West All-Rookie team during his debut season.
The young forward demonstrated his scoring prowess in 2025, netting eight goals in 15 appearances for the Trinity Western Spartans, showcasing the offensive potential that attracted Cavalry's attention.
Second-Round Selection: Championship Pedigree
Cavalry returned to the draft board in the second round, selecting 22-year-old defender Luc Ihama with the 14th overall pick. The Barrie, Ontario native brings valuable championship experience to Calgary's defensive corps.
Ihama's recent soccer journey saw him enroll at Toronto Metropolitan University in September 2025, following an impressive stint at Centennial College in Toronto where he was named the 2024-25 men's soccer MVP.
The defender also boasts professional development experience with League1 Ontario side Simcoe County Rovers FC, where he contributed to a championship-winning campaign in 2023.
Club Leadership Enthusiastic About New Additions
Cavalry assistant general manager Tofa Fakunle expressed significant excitement about both selections, highlighting the players' character and potential.
"We are thrilled to welcome Emmanuel and Luc to the club," Fakunle stated. "Both are dynamic young players with personality, character and hunger to succeed. We look forward to welcoming them to training camp."
The two draft picks will join Cavalry FC for pre-season training ahead of the 2026 CPL regular season, which is scheduled to begin in April.
In other draft news, expansion club FC Supra du Quebec made University of Montreal midfielder Calin Calaidjoglu the first overall selection. The 24-year-old midfielder recorded six goals and three assists this past season.
