Tristan Blackmon ’17 and the Vancouver Whitecaps FC appeared in the Concacaf Champions Cup Final on June 1, where they competed for one of the most prestigious titles in North American soccer. For Blackmon, a veteran MLS defender, this marked his second chance to capture the trophy that narrowly eluded him in 2020.

Before becoming a pro, Blackmon built his foundation at the University of the Pacific, where he played 70 matches for the Tigers, scoring 16 goals and recording nine assists. Originally recruited as a forward, he made a pivotal switch to right back during his sophomore year—a move that set the stage for his professional career.

“I left Pacific a much different person than the one I walked in as,” says Blackmon. “The environment and the people around me aided so much in the personal growth that took place. The team I was fortunate enough to be a part of was an extremely special group and the coaches and staff around it helped guide us all to success. Some of my closest friends today are my UOP teammates from those years we shared together."

Blackmon credits Pacific coaches Ryan Jorden, Jordan Ferrell, and Matt Gow for believing in his potential and guiding him through both personal and athletic challenges. “They saw something for me and in me and I just finally decided to stop rebelling, completely put my trust them and the vision for the bigger picture. They couldn’t have been more right; and all of their guidance and mentorship are some of the biggest reasons I feel I am in this position today.”

Since graduating, Blackmon has continued to rise. A highlight came in 2022, when he scored the winning penalty in the Canadian Championship Final against Toronto FC. Now, with another final ahead, he remains focused. “My game-winning goal against Pumas in the quarterfinals and our team win against Inter Miami CF in the semifinals are great moments in the story, but I want to win the trophy."

To current Pacific students dreaming of their future, Blackmon offers this advice: “Ask yourself how bad you want it. Work hard, enjoy and embrace the daily grind and set your sights on what YOU want, and only what YOU want."

Blackmon is proud to carry the Pacific spirit with him. “Obviously, this [game was] one of the bigger moments in my career so far, but no matter the occurrence or weight of the game, the Pacific support will always be appreciated. I hope I am making the athletics community proud at UOP."