Cougars standout Joseph Green leaps to the pros after breakout season

From the moment Joseph Green stepped onto the soccer pitch for the Mount Royal Cougars, his presence was immediately felt. His composure on the defensive end was remarkable, and the first-year defender looked pro-ready from the jump. 

Originally from Winnipeg, Green left home for the first time and didn't know exactly what the season ahead would hold, only that he'd have to grow fast. Toughness became a key theme for the Cougars' identity this season, and Green embodied it. 

He leaned on teammates, embraced the grind, and helped the program capture a 2–1 victory over UBC for the Canada West title. For Green, the group's identity was as important as its talent. "The biggest factor with our success this year was having God on our side and the work we put into each practice and game," he says. "Our resilience when facing adversity… helped us reach as far as we got, and we always stuck together no matter what the result was."

His stellar play and continued growth all year helped him garner the attention of professional scouts. In early December, Green was drafted with the third overall pick in the CPL-U SPORTS Draft by Vancouver FC, making him one of the highest selected players in Cougars history. 

For Green, it was validation for the strides he has taken as a player, and he could not pass up an opportunity to take the next step. "I'm very excited to be stepping into a new chapter of my life with Vancouver FC because of the experience and professionalism all the players have to offer," he says. "Learning from them will help me mature as a player and grow to become a better footballer as well."

Green's style of play feels built for the speed and physicality of the CPL. He moves with power, defends confidently, and thrives in transitional moments, showing an edge that's generally rare among first-year U SPORTS athletes. He's aware of that fit, and it fuels his belief in taking the next step. "I rely on my natural qualities: pace, defensive discipline, and being able to play quickly under pressure," he explains. "I don't shy away from physical battles." 

At the same time, Green is determined to refine the details that separate the good players from the elite at the professional level. "I'm focusing on sharpening my consistency, being able to impact the game every match, not just in moments," he says. "I'm also working on speeding up my split-second decision making because at the CPL level you get punished if you're even a second late."

This season was more than just a breakout year for Green, it was a turning point. Moving to Calgary and learning to navigate life on his own, he credits his teammates for helping him grow and believing in him. Green proudly represents the Cougars as he starts his professional career, and embraces the chance to keep growing at the next level.