After Atlético Ottawa’s Nathan Ingham became the all-time appearance holder for the club, let’s look back at some of his most memorable moments during his tenure in the nation’s capital.
Our New No. 1
Ingham’s inaugural season with the Rojiblancos came off the back of a disappointing 2021 campaign which saw Atleti finish last place in the league conceding 47 goals. As part of an incoming wave of new signings featuring the likes of Ollie Bassett, Ingham helped turn Atleti into a defensive powerhouse in the league conceding 29 goals on the year. He would go on to earn a nomination for the CPL Goalkeeper of the Year Award as Atleti won the regular season title and made a CPL Final appearance for the first time.
All-State Nate: A Star is Born
After Ingham’s arrival in Ottawa in 2022, the Atleti keeper impressed by consistently racking up “All-State" Save of the Match Awards with his superb heroics between the sticks. Soon after, the nickname All-State Nate caught on and was being cheered through the stands at TD Place anytime Ingham would bail out the team with an incredible performance.
A Capital Commitment
In 2023, Ingham cemented himself in Atlético lore after signing a contract extension with Ottawa. All-State Nate doubled down on his commitment to the city by naming Atlético the only club he wanted to play for in this country. The comments instantly won over fans and helped establish his legacy in Ottawa as a leadership figure of the team.
Opportunity Abroad
Ingham was rewarded for a dominant 2022 campaign by receiving an invitation to join Atlético Mexican affiliate club San Luis to trial during their 2023 Clausura season. He along with former midfielder Ollie Bassett spent four weeks training with the club, learning from established professionals of the global game. This trip was key in helping improve Ingham’s confidence and communication, propelling him into a leadership role with the club.
Closing the Door on York
While Ingham has produced countless marvelous saves over the years fans will remember Ingham’s crucial penalty save on Mo Babouli in 2024’s CPL playoff quarterfinal against York United. With the match headed to penalties tied at 2-2, Ingham got a hand to Babouli’s low strike, which would end up being the difference as Ottawa advanced. Talk about coming through in the clutch.