Delaney Baie (DB) Pridham, the initial recipient of the Golden Boot and Player of the Year awards in the Northern Super League (NSL), has prolonged her affiliation with Rapid FC until the culmination of the 2028 campaign.
At 28 years old, Pridham has netted 28 goals in the NSL’s inaugural two seasons and has made numerous appearances for the Canadian national women’s team. She is anticipated to feature on the roster this autumn as Canada vies for a spot in the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Born in Saratoga, Calif., Pridham, an alumna of Santa Clara University, has previously played for IBV in Iceland, as well as Kristianstads DFF and Linköpings FC in Sweden. Despite her international experiences, Pridham values her time playing in Ottawa.
Expressing her contentment, Pridham stated, “Being part of a robust club with our new owners sharing their belief and vision for the club’s future thrilled me. I truly enjoy it here. Ottawa is a magnificent city, and our fan base is exceptional and ever-expanding.”
Thomas Gilbert, the CEO of Rapid FC, expressed his lack of surprise at Pridham’s decision to stay with the team, emphasizing ongoing discussions dating back a year. He commended Pridham’s dedication and assured that the club’s offer aligned with her deserving market value.
The specifics of the contract extension were not disclosed.
In a related development, former Canadian national team stalwart Carmelina Moscato has been appointed as the head coach of Ottawa for the forthcoming season, succeeding Katrine Pederson. Moscato’s coaching background spans the U.S., Denmark, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia.
This addition exemplifies the caliber of talent attracted to the NSL, a fact that Gilbert believes underscores the league’s growing reputation on the global stage.
Regarding player movement within the league, both Gilbert and NSL president Christina Litz emphasize proactive measures to ensure competitive conditions and contract values that incentivize players to remain within the league.
Pridham consulted with Moscato before finalizing her decision to remain with Ottawa FC, citing a positive discussion that reinforced her commitment to the club.
The NSL provides players with valuable playing time and experience crucial for national team aspirations. Recent acquisitions of top players like Sabrina D’Angelo and Shelina Zadorsky at AFC Toronto, and Marie-Yasmine (Mimi) Alidou at Montreal Roses, underscore the league’s international appeal.
Litz reiterates the league’s ambition to become a top-five global league, highlighting the significance of retaining and attracting top talent. The NSL’s Canadian players appreciate the opportunity to play in their home country, near their families and friends, a factor that significantly influences their decisions to stay within the league.
As the league expands, player signings and contract extensions will serve as key indicators of its progress, while the NSL’s appeal lies in providing a sense of home for Canadian players, fostering a personal commitment to the league’s growth and development.
