The CFL Players’ Association has named David Mackie as its executive director, stepping into the role after Brian Ramsay’s departure to the Professional Hockey Players’ Association. Until now, the union was managed on an interim basis by former CFL player Peter Dyakowski, marking a period of transition for the organization.
At 30 years old, Mackie recently retired from a six-season tenure as a fullback with the B.C. Lions. His background includes serving as a player representative and being elected as the union’s third vice-president in 2024. A native of Jackson’s Point, Ontario, he was drafted in 2018 by the B.C. Lions after a successful collegiate career at Western, highlighted by a Vanier Cup win.
During his CFL career, Mackie played 61 regular-season games where he contributed both as a rusher and receiver, in addition to making an impact on special teams. In his new leadership role, he expressed a commitment to ensuring that players’ challenges and rights are acknowledged and protected, drawing from his firsthand experiences as a recently retired athlete.
In addition to Mackie’s appointment, the CFLPA is strengthening its internal framework by appointing André Gougen as the in-house legal counsel and chief operating officer, while long-time general counsel Art Vertlieb will transition to a senior legal adviser role within the association. These changes reflect the union's efforts to enhance its operational and legal support.
Elsewhere in the league, the Ottawa Redblacks have signed American linebacker Ayinde (Ace) Eley to a one-year contract. Eley, who was recently released by the B.C. Lions after notable performances that included a nomination for the CFL’s top rookie award, brings additional experience from previous stints with NFL teams like the Carolina Panthers and Houston Texans, further stirring the mix of roster moves in the CFL.
14 Comments
Fuerza
Strengthening the legal team? More lawyers won't win games or protect players on the field. This seems like a waste of resources.
Manolo Noriega
Good to see a former player like Mackie step up, but the CFLPA needs to do more to address player safety and concussions.
Ongania
CFL players deserve strong leadership, and I'm not convinced Mackie is the right person for the job. His lack of experience is concerning.
Manolo Noriega
Investing in legal and operational support is a necessary step for the CFLPA to thrive in a complex and ever-changing environment.
Fuerza
Wishing Brian Ramsay all the best in his new role with the NHLPA. He served the CFLPA well, and we appreciate his contributions.
Matzomaster
Another American player taking a roster spot. Don't get me wrong, Eley is talented, but shouldn't we be developing Canadian talent?
Habibi
Actions speak louder than words, but I'm optimistic that Mackie will bring positive change to the CFLPA and advocate for the players.
Muchacho
Mackie talks a good game, but talk is cheap. Let's see him actually deliver for the players before we start celebrating.
ZmeeLove
Disappointed to see Brian Ramsay leave for the NHLPA. He did a lot of good things for the CFLPA. Wish him the best, but this is a loss for the CFL.
Africa
Great to see a young, former player like Mackie take the helm! He knows what it's like to be in the trenches and will fight for player interests.
Leonardo
Not thrilled about this. Didn't Mackie just retire? Does he have the experience needed to lead the association effectively?
Bella Ciao
Excited about Mackie's commitment to ensuring player challenges and rights are addressed. He has firsthand experience and understands the issues players face.
Muchacha
The CFL needs to develop Canadian talent, but attracting top international players like Eley is also important for the league's growth and global reach.
Mariposa
Hope Mackie remembers what it's like to be in the trenches as a player when making decisions for the association. But being young and inexperienced worries me.