Delaney Baie (DB) Pridham, the inaugural Golden Boot recipient and Player of the Year in the Northern Super League, has agreed to prolong her contract with Rapid FC until the culmination of the 2028 season. With a track record of 28 goals in the first two NSL seasons and appearances for the Canada national women’s team, the 28-year-old is set to feature in Canada’s quest for a spot 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. However, her commitment to Ottawa shines through as she expresses her satisfaction with the city and the growing fan base.
Expressing his lack of surprise at Pridham’s decision, Thomas Gilbert, the CEO of Rapid FC, highlighted ongoing discussions that culminated in a mutually beneficial agreement. The specifics of the deal remain undisclosed.
In a related development, Carmelina Moscato, a former national team stalwart, has been appointed as Ottawa’s head coach for the upcoming season, succeeding Katrine Pederson. Moscato’s coaching experience across various countries underscores the high-caliber talent attracted to the NSL, a sentiment echoed by Gilbert, who envisions the league as a global powerhouse.
Addressing concerns about player retention, both Gilbert and NSL president Christina Litz emphasize proactive measures to ensure competitive conditions and contract terms to retain top talent. Player movement is acknowledged as a strategic element influenced by various factors, including personal preferences and club strategies.
Pridham, after consulting with Moscato, reaffirmed her commitment to Ottawa FC, emphasizing the supportive environment for players seeking playing time and national team exposure. The NSL’s recent acquisitions of top players like Sabrina D’Angelo and Shelina Zadorsky at AFC Toronto, and Marie-Yasmine (Mimi) Alidou at Montreal Roses, exemplify the league’s international appeal and ambition to be a premier global league.
As the NSL aims to be a top-five league globally, the emphasis on attracting and retaining top talent, including Canadian players, remains a central objective. The league’s allure, particularly the opportunity for players to compete at home and be close to family, resonates strongly with players contributing to the league’s growth and success.