McMaster University Athletics

A key building block in McMaster's evolution into an OUA football powerhouse, Ryan Donnelly was known for his intensity and his toughness on the gridiron.  Joining a program that had been winless before his arrival, Donnelly became a pillar on the Marauder offensive line and helped power McMaster to its first-ever Yates Cup Championship in 2000, and to a repeat title in 2001.  Donnelly was named to the OUA First-Team All-Star squad in 1999, 2000, and 2001; and he was twice honoured as a CIS All-Canadian (2000 & 2001).  HIs career in Maroon saw him recognized as the team's Most Improved Player in 1998, and as the Offensive  Lineman of the Year on three occasions. He was further honoured by his selection to McMaster's Team of the Century (1900-99) and Team of the Decade (2000-09).   Drafted into the CFL in 2001, Ryan enjoyed a nine-year professional career with stops in Hamilton and Winnipeg.