Cape Breton University's reputation for excellence in soccer was once again affirmed during the 2025 CPL-U SPORTS Draft Presented by Degree. Harvey Hughes and Jason Hartill from CBU CAPERS Men's Soccer team were selected in the first round of the draft. This is the seventh consecutive year that CBU athletes have been drafted into the CPL, cementing the University's place as a powerhouse for developing top-tier soccer talent.
Since the inaugural CPL Draft in 2018, CBU has produced an impressive 19 players for the League, making it the most of any university in North America. Players from CBU CAPERS Soccer program have now been drafted by eight different CPL clubs, showcasing the depth, versatility and caliber of the team's athletes.
Harvey Hughes, a first-year Bachelor of Arts in Community Studies (BACS) student from Southampton, UK, was the first-round pick for the current CPL Champions - Cavalry FC. A dynamic left winger wearing jersey number 11, Hughes delivered an outstanding season with five goals and six assists, making him a constant threat on the pitch.
"Harvey is an excellent two-way player with a brilliant engine and desire," says CAPERS Men's Soccer Head Coach, Deano Morley. "His ability to deliver into the box is second to none. He's a constant threat, has a high football IQ and is a very unselfish player who scores big goals in big games. I expect Harvey to not only fit into Cavalry's championship environment but thrive there."
Jason Hartill, a second-year BACS student from Carleton Place, ON, was selected as the sixth overall pick by Atlético Ottawa. This marks Hartill's second CPL Draft selection after being picked by York FC last year. Known for his technical skill and relentless work rate, Hartill is a center midfielder who consistently commands the pitch, covering the most ground of any player on the CAPERS team.
"Jason is a top-quality, professional-caliber central midfielder," says Coach Morley. "He does all the hidden work, controls the midfield and is the engine of our team. While his impact may not always be obvious to everyday fans, professional coaches clearly recognize his talent and potential. I'm excited to see him thrive at the highest level in Canada."
The CAPERS' consistent presence in the CPL Draft reflects the strength of CBU's soccer program and its ability to nurture both the athletic and academic growth of its players. "To have 19 players drafted into the CPL over seven years is a remarkable achievement," says Coach Morley. "It speaks volumes about the hard work of our athletes and the support they receive here at CBU."
As Hughes and Hartill take their next steps into professional soccer, the entire CBU community celebrates their achievements and looks forward to cheering them on in the CPL. Their success is a testament to the CAPERS' tradition of excellence and their continued commitment to producing top-tier talent.
Congratulations to Harvey Hughes, Jason Hartill and the entire CBU Capers program on another outstanding CPL Draft!
