Delaney Baie (DB) Pridham, who was the inaugural Golden Boot recipient and Player of the Year in the Northern Super League (NSL), has signed an extension with Rapid FC until the end of the 2028 season. Pridham, 28, has netted 28 goals in the NSL’s first two campaigns and has featured prominently for the Canadian national women’s team. She is anticipated to represent Canada in their quest to qualify for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Originally from Saratoga, California, Pridham, a Santa Clara University alumna, has plied her trade with various clubs worldwide, including IBV in Iceland, as well as Kristianstads DFF and Linköpings FC in Sweden. However, she takes immense pride in her current stint in Ottawa.
Expressing her enthusiasm, Pridham commented, “I am delighted to be part of a solid club with ambitious owners who have a clear vision for the club’s future. I am content here. Ottawa is a beautiful city, and our fan base is exceptional and steadily expanding.”
Thomas Gilbert, Rapid FC’s CEO, expressed no surprise at Pridham’s decision to prolong her stay. He shared, “We have been in discussions with her about this since last year. DB’s relentless drive and dedication to her craft gave me the confidence that she would engage in talks with us if we presented a fitting offer commensurate with her worth.”
The specifics of the contract extension were not disclosed. Pridham is not the sole Canadian talent making the move to Ottawa, as former national team stalwart Carmelina Moscato has been appointed as the head coach for the upcoming season, succeeding Katrine Pederson. Moscato brings a wealth of coaching experience from the U.S., Denmark, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia to Ottawa.
Gilbert highlighted the league’s increasing caliber, stating, “Our aim is for this league to rank among the top globally. The acquisitions of players like DB and Carmelina underscore our progress in that direction.”
Regarding player movement in and out of the league, Gilbert and NSL president Christina Litz emphasized the proactive measures taken to enhance player retention by ensuring competitive contract values. Litz mentioned, “Players have varying reasons for opting to play elsewhere, and we respect their decisions whether it aligns with their career goals or personal preferences.”
Pridham credited her decision to extend her stay at Ottawa FC to her positive discussion with Moscato, emphasizing her confidence in the coach and the club. The NSL offers players a platform to gain valuable playing time and experience, particularly for those eyeing national team selection.
In recent times, the NSL has attracted top talents like Sabrina D’Angelo, Shelina Zadorsky at AFC Toronto, and Marie-Yasmine (Mimi) Alidou at Montreal Roses, all of whom have represented Canada on the global stage, enhancing the league’s international appeal. Litz emphasized the importance of retaining top talents to propel the league toward becoming a premier destination for elite players.
As the NSL progresses, player signings and contract extensions will serve as indicators of its growth. The league’s allure to Canadian players lies in the opportunity to play in their home country, close to family and friends, which Litz described as a significant motivating factor for many players committing to the NSL’s development.
