Delaney Baie (DB) Pridham, the inaugural Golden Boot recipient and Player of the Year in the Northern Super League (NSL), has prolonged her tenure with Rapid FC until the conclusion of the 2028 campaign. The 28-year-old has netted 28 goals across the NSL’s initial two seasons and boasts multiple appearances for the Canadian national women’s team. She is anticipated to be part of the squad this autumn as Canada vies for a berth in the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Hailing from Saratoga, California, Pridham is an alumna of Santa Clara University and has competed for IBV in Iceland, as well as Kristianstads DFF and Linköpings FC in Sweden. Despite her international ventures, Pridham finds fulfillment in representing Ottawa.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the club’s direction under new ownership, Pridham remarked, “Being affiliated with such a formidable club and witnessing the vision our owners have for its future greatly appealed to me. I’m genuinely content here. Ottawa is a picturesque city, and our fan base is steadily expanding.”
Thomas Gilbert, CEO of Rapid FC, expressed no astonishment at Pridham’s decision to remain with the team. He disclosed, “We have been in discussions with her since the previous year regarding this matter. DB epitomizes dedication and ambition, and I was confident that if we presented a competitive offer, she would engage in negotiations with us.”
The financial terms of the contract extension were not disclosed.
Pridham is not the sole Canadian talent to converge on Ottawa. Former national team stalwart Carmelina Moscato has been appointed as the head coach for the upcoming season, succeeding Katrine Pederson. Moscato brings coaching experience from various countries like the U.S., Denmark, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia.
The recruitment of such eminent figures into the league underscores the caliber of talent gravitating towards the NSL, a sentiment echoed by Gilbert. He emphasized, “Our league aspires to rank among the world’s elite. The signings of players like DB and Carm are indicative of our progress in that direction.”
While player mobility between leagues occasionally occurs, it is not a significant concern for Gilbert or NSL president Christina Litz. They prioritize proactive measures to foster conditions and remuneration that incentivize players to remain within the league.
Pridham disclosed that a conversation with Moscato influenced her decision to continue with Ottawa FC. She stated, “My discussion with her was highly encouraging. Learning about her as an individual and as a coach affirmed my choice to extend my stay with the club.”
The NSL is recognized for providing players with substantial playing time and exposure, crucial for those aspiring to represent the national team. Recent acquisitions in the league include notable players like Sabrina D’Angelo and Shelina Zadorsky at AFC Toronto, and Marie-Yasmine (Mimi) Alidou at Montreal Roses, all of whom have excelled on the global stage of women’s soccer.
Litz articulated the league’s ambition to ascend to a premier global position, emphasizing the significance of attracting and retaining top-tier talent. The proximity to home and the support of family and friends contribute significantly to Canadian players’ commitment to the NSL.
As the league progresses, signings and contract extensions will serve as indicators of its growth and success. The allure of playing on home soil resonates deeply with players, reflecting a personal dedication to nurturing the league’s development by choosing to compete in Canada.