The first-ever Ottawa REDBLACK has called it a career.
After being drafted by the upstart REDBLACKS in 2013, Nolan MacMillan played a pivotal role in helping building the team and its following of fans, from his spot as a stalwart on the offensive line.
“Nolan will always be remembered as the REDBLACKS’ first-ever draft pick and became one of our heart-and-soul players for eight terrific years,” said OSEG CEO Mark Goudie. “I am sad that I won’t see him run out of the tunnel in a REDBLACKS jersey again but we are thrilled that he will continue be a wonderful ambassador for our club. What else would you expect from a good dude from The Prior?”
A veteran of 87 CFL games, three Grey Cup appearances and a championship in 2016, MacMillan played all seven of his professional seasons in Ottawa.
Born in Arnprior, MacMillan also represented a key part of the local contingent of REDBLACKS players over the years, helping cement the team’s role as an active champion of the Ottawa-Gatineau community.
MacMillan announced his retirement Friday night as part of the Ottawa REDBLACKS Legacy Night, which featured a number of players from the 2016 championship team reuniting at TD Place.
MacMillan released the following statement:
Thank you, RNation, for an unforgettable experience.
When I came to Ottawa in 2014 I didn’t know what to expect, but the opportunity to participate in the building of the REDBLACKS from Day One was life changing for me. I take a great deal of pride in having been able to play my entire career here in Ottawa.
I want to thank OSEG for executing on the ownership group’s vision of what Lansdowne could and should be. Their commitment to bringing football back to Ottawa and doing it the right way has allowed for me and a new generation of fans to make lifelong memories and bonds.
There is never a perfect time to walk away from a game that has meant so much to me and my development, but I am excited for life after football. I am very grateful to be leaving the game with all of the lessons, disappointments and triumphs that I have experienced.
I couldn’t have done any of this without the love and support of my family, friends and teammates, thank you.
Once again, RNation, thanks for everything
