Atlético Ottawa captain Drew Beckie announces retirement from soccer

Atlético Ottawa captain Drew Beckie has announced his retirement from professional soccer. 

Beckie enjoyed two successful stints with Ottawa Fury before returning to the nation's capital to play for Atlético Ottawa in 2021. The 32-year-old was named club captain for the 2022 season and led the the team to its first piece of silverware as Atlético Ottawa was crowned Canadian Premier League (CPL) regular season champions for the 2022 season, and the led the team to the CPL finals. 

“I cannot begin to express my gratitude to Atlético Ottawa, the coaching staff, the front office staff, Fernando (López) for bringing me into this project, to Mista for giving me the opportunity to build something here that I won't forget,” said Beckie. “I played a small part in what I hope is a massive success for years to come and for that, I thank each and every one of you for this amazing time we had together.” 

Fernando López, chief executive officer (CEO) for Atlético Ottawa, has nothing but praise for his captain. 

“On behalf of everyone at Atlético Ottawa and throughout our Ottleti family, I want to say a massive thank you to our club captain Drew Beckie,” said López. “Drew has had an incredible impact on the soccer community in the Ottawa and Gatineau region, from captaining our record-breaking side in 2022 to his days with Ottawa Fury and his grassroots work with youth soccer in the city. Everyone affiliated with the sport in this area has benefited from Drew choosing to play here. We wish him all the best as he retires from playing the game and we look forward to supporting him in whatever comes next.”