Delaney Baie (DB) Pridham, the inaugural Golden Boot recipient and Player of the Year in the Northern Super League, has inked a contract extension with Rapid FC until the conclusion of the 2028 campaign. With 28 goals in the first two NSL seasons and a track record with the Canadian national women’s team, the 28-year-old is anticipated to be a key player as Canada vies for a spot in the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Hailing from Saratoga, California, Pridham, an alumna of Santa Clara University, has previously plied her trade in Iceland with IBV, as well as in Sweden with Kristianstads DFF and Linköpings FC. Despite her international stints, Pridham values her time in Ottawa, emphasizing the club’s strength and the promising future envisioned by its new owners.
Thomas Gilbert, the CEO of Rapid FC, expressed his lack of surprise at Pridham’s decision to remain at the club, citing ongoing discussions since the previous year. Gilbert praised Pridham’s dedication and drive, affirming his confidence that offering her a deserving contract would lead to a positive outcome.
The specifics of the contract extension remain undisclosed. Notably, Pridham is not the sole Canadian talent to join Ottawa, with former national team stalwart Carmelina Moscato set to take the reins as head coach for the upcoming season, succeeding Katrine Pederson. Moscato’s coaching experience across various nations underscores the caliber of talent attracted to the NSL, reflecting the league’s ambition to become a global powerhouse.
Addressing concerns over player movement, Gilbert and NSL president Christina Litz emphasized proactive measures to retain talent by ensuring favorable conditions and competitive contract values. Pridham’s decision to consult with Moscato before extending her stay at Ottawa FC highlights the positive environment within the club.
The NSL offers players a platform to gain crucial playing time and experience, especially for those eyeing national team opportunities. Recent high-profile signings within the league, such as Sabrina D’Angelo and Shelina Zadorsky at AFC Toronto, and Marie-Yasmine (Mimi) Alidou at Montreal Roses, underscore its growing stature and international appeal.
Litz envisions the NSL as a top-five global league, with the attraction and retention of elite talents being a key focus for the league’s development. The emphasis on providing a homegrown environment for Canadian players, enabling them to stay close to family and friends, serves as a significant motivator for players choosing to compete in the NSL.
