Delaney Baie (DB) Pridham, the inaugural Golden Boot recipient and Player of the Year in the Northern Super League, has prolonged her affiliation with Rapid FC until the 2028 campaign. The 28-year-old has netted 28 goals in the first two NSL seasons and has featured prominently for the Canadian national women’s team. She is anticipated to be a part of the squad this autumn as Canada endeavors to secure a spot in the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Originally from Saratoga, Calif., Pridham, an alumna of Santa Clara University, has plied her trade with IBV in Iceland and Kristianstads DFF and Linköpings FC in Sweden. Despite her international exploits, she takes immense pride in representing Ottawa.
Expressing her enthusiasm for continuing with Rapid FC, Pridham remarked, “Being associated with a robust club, with our new owners sharing their vision for the club’s future, excites me. I am genuinely content here. Ottawa is a picturesque city, and our fan base is exceptional and expanding.”
Thomas Gilbert, Rapid FC’s CEO, expressed his confidence in Pridham’s decision to stay, stating, “We’ve engaged in discussions with her since last year about this. DB’s unwavering dedication and commitment are evident, and I was confident that if we presented a fair offer, she would engage in dialogue with us.”
The specifics of the contract extension were not disclosed. Pridham is not the only Canadian talent making a move to Ottawa. Renowned former national team player Carmelina Moscato has been appointed as Ottawa’s head coach for the upcoming season, succeeding Katrine Pederson. Moscato brings a wealth of coaching experience from various countries to the club, underscoring the caliber of talent being attracted to the NSL.
Gilbert emphasized the league’s ambition to be recognized among the world’s top leagues, citing prominent signings like Pridham and Moscato as evidence of positive progression. The league’s proactive approach aims to retain talent and foster a competitive environment.
Player transfers in and out of the league are part of the natural dynamics, according to Litz and Gilbert. Ensuring players are content with their contracts and fostering an environment conducive to player development are key priorities for the league.
Pridham’s decision to consult with Moscato before extending her contract further underscores the positive atmosphere at Ottawa FC. The NSL provides a platform where players can gain valuable experience and exposure, particularly for those aspiring to represent their national teams.
Recent acquisitions of top-tier players like Sabrina D’Angelo and Shelina Zadorsky at AFC Toronto and Marie-Yasmine (Mimi) Alidou at Montreal Roses demonstrate the league’s growing international appeal. The NSL’s goal to be a premier league globally is reinforced by top players opting to compete in the league.
As the NSL continues to evolve, player signings and contract extensions will serve as indicators of its prosperity. The league’s emphasis on providing a homegrown platform for Canadian players, enabling them to stay close to their roots, is a significant draw for many athletes. The personal commitment displayed by players in nurturing the league’s growth is a testament to their dedication towards elevating the sport in Canada.