# Jayden Mcmillan Awarded Glenn ‘Keeper’ Mcwhinney Scholarship

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> Alberta student-athlete recognized for leadership, perseverance and service to others

By Mark Perry · Published 2026-11-14 19:13 UTC

*Alberta student-athlete recognized for leadership, perseverance and service to others*

**CALGARY (November 14, 2026)** – The Canadian Football Hall of Fame (CFHOF) and Museum and the McWhinney family have awarded the Glenn ‘Keeper’ McWhinney Scholarship to Jayden McMillan for outstanding achievement on the field, in the classroom and in the community.

“Jayden’s story is one of resilience and a genuine commitment to his community,” said Eric Noivo, Executive Director of the CFHOF. “This scholarship recognizes young people whose impact extends beyond their own achievements and Jayden exemplifies that in every sense. Through his approach to adversity, his support of those around him and continued efforts to give back, he has set an outstanding example for teammates, fellow students and all young people.”

Football has been a part of McMillan's life for 12 seasons. A captain at St. Mary's High School in Calgary, he is someone that teammates routinely turn to for advice, encouragement or a steady voice when challenges arise. Just as comfortable making a quiet joke to lift the mood as he is stepping into a larger role when needed, McMillan has become a trusted presence on and off the field.

His dedication to the sport was tested when he suffered a serious leg injury during a football game, breaking his leg in two places and requiring surgery. The injury kept him away from the field and out of the classroom for two months, presenting a significant physical and mental challenge. But even during the most difficult moments of his injury, his sense of humour remained. While waiting for paramedics following the accident, McMillan still found ways to lighten the atmosphere, while also thanking the trainers, coaches, teachers and family members who came to his side.

Despite a lengthy recovery, he remained determined to return to the game he loves, working through rehabilitation and spending countless hours in the weight room and on the field to regain his strength.

His commitment extended beyond his own recovery, as he continued to support his teammates while approaching each day with the same work ethic and unwavering resolve. This season, he made his triumphant return as a team captain, while playing middle linebacker and offensive lineman.

Away from football, McMillan has dedicated himself to helping the next generation of athletes. He volunteers to prepare and maintain youth football fields, helping provide safe facilities for young players. He has also returned to his former junior high school to referee and coach flag football, offering guidance and encouragement to students beginning their own journeys in the sport.

In the classroom, the International Baccalaureate student continues to maintain his academic studies. He also volunteers his time tutoring teammates, friends and younger students through student-led tutoring initiatives to help others reach their academic potential.

The scholarship is named in memory of Glenn ‘Keeper’ McWhinney – a 1954 Grey Cup champion and a leader in the community, who passed away in 2012 following a courageous battle with cancer. His family and friends created the scholarship fund in his honour, which awards $5,000 to post-secondary student-athletes who embody the attributes of its namesake: commitment, honesty, humility, courage and volunteerism in the community. It has been presented annually by the CFHOF and administered by The Winnipeg Foundation since 2022.

“Our family created this scholarship to honour young people who reflect the values that guided my father’s life,” said Jeff McWhinney. “Jayden immediately stood out. His perseverance through adversity, his leadership, and his overall willingness to help others speak volumes about his character. What impressed us most was that even while facing significant challenges of his own, he continued to invest his time and energy in supporting those around him. Those are the qualities my father admired most and we are honoured to recognize Jayden as this year's recipient.”

The 113th Grey Cup, featuring the Bud Light Grey Cup Halftime Show headlined by Riley Green, Sarah McLachlan performing the national anthem, a special pre-game performance from Blue Rodeo’s Jim Cuddy and Greg Keelor, and James Barker Band in the SiriusXM Grey Cup Kickoff Show, will be played in Calgary at McMahon Stadium on Sunday, November 15, with kickoff slated for 6 p.m. ET/5 p.m. MT. The game will air live across Canada on TSN, CTV, RDS, Crave and internationally on DAZN and CFL+.

From Pro Football News Hub. More at https://profootballnewshub.com/llms.txt