Atlético Ottawa club captain Drew Beckie has announced his decision to retire from playing professional football. Drew Beckie has made the decision to step back from the playing field and seek to continue his career with soccer in a different manner starting this off-season.

“I cannot begin to express my gratitude to Atlético Ottawa, the coaching staff, the front office staff, Fernando for bringing me into this project, to Mista for giving me the opportunity to build something here that I won’t forget,” said Drew Beckie. “I played a small part in what Ihope 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.”

The 30-year-old joined Atlético Ottawa ahead of the 2021 season and was named as club captain following the departure of Milovan Kapor. Beckie’s decision to step away from the game comes with a heavy heart but no regrets. “I have other targets I want to reach now,” explained Beckie. “I would like to stay in the sport and continue to help this team in a different way. I spoke with Fernando López (Atlético Ottawa CEO) and he has supported me with my ideas. I am honoured to have the opportunity to stay with the Atlético family.

“During my career, I felt that things weren’t always in my control, especially when it comes to injuries. My body hasn’t always been able to do what I’ve wanted it to do. I haven’t reached my dream as a player, but I hope I’ll be able to in a new role away from the pitch.”

 

Under Beckie’s leadership, Atleti were crowned 2022 Canadian Premier League Regular season champions and went on to host the Canadian Premier League Playoff final at here at TD Place in front of a crowd that has left a long-lasting imprint in the defender’s mind. “There were so many people,” said Beckie. “Soccer is becoming part of our culture here in Canada and we are seeing that with this club. We are a big family and we are a melting pot
of all our different cultures, everyone is welcome here. “We are seeing it with Atlético Ottawa and now we’re seeing it again with the national team at the World Cup. I really feel like I’m leaving soccer when it’s in a good place. I wasn’t able to win the Champions League or the World Cup as a player, but who knows maybe I’ll do it
some other way.”

Over the course of two seasons, Beckie featured 46 times for Atleti, scoring one goal and providing one assist.