Delaney Baie (DB) Pridham, the inaugural Golden Boot recipient and Player of the Year in the Northern Super League, has signed an extension with Rapid FC until the end of the 2028 season. With 28 goals under her belt in the NSL’s first two seasons and a history of playing for the Canada national women’s team, Pridham is set to compete this autumn as Canada aims for qualification in the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Originally from 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 experience, Pridham values her time in Ottawa, expressing enthusiasm for the club’s direction under new ownership and the growing support from fans.
Thomas Gilbert, the CEO of Rapid FC, expressed confidence in Pridham’s decision to remain with the team, noting ongoing discussions that led to a satisfactory agreement. The specific terms of the deal were not disclosed.
In a noteworthy development for Ottawa, former national team player Carmelina Moscato has been appointed as the head coach for the upcoming season, succeeding Katrine Pederson. Moscato brings coaching experience from various countries, reflecting the caliber of talent being attracted to the NSL and signaling progress towards the league’s ambition to become a world-class competition.
While player movement between leagues is a common occurrence, both Gilbert and NSL president Christina Litz prioritize creating an environment that fosters player retention through competitive conditions and contracts. The NSL’s ability to provide playing time and development opportunities, especially for aspiring national team members, is a key draw for players seeking growth in their careers.
Recent high-profile signings in the NSL, such as Sabrina D’Angelo and Shelina Zadorsky at AFC Toronto, underscore the league’s international appeal and competitive nature. With aspirations to be among the top leagues globally, the NSL continues to attract top talent, showcasing a diverse pool of players representing multiple nations and adding vibrancy to the league.
The league’s growth trajectory will be reflected in future signings and extensions, with a focus on retaining top talent. The allure of playing in Canada, close to family and friends, is a significant factor for many players, underscoring their commitment to the NSL’s success and overall development of women’s soccer in the country.