Delaney Baie (DB) Pridham, the inaugural Golden Boot recipient and Player of the Year in the Northern Super League (NSL), has committed to continue her tenure with Rapid FC until 2028. With 28 goals in the NSL’s first two seasons and previous appearances for the Canada national women’s team, the 28-year-old forward is set to remain with the Ottawa-based club as they aim to secure a spot in the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Originally from Saratoga, California, Pridham, a Santa Clara University alumna, has previously played for clubs in Iceland and Sweden. Despite her international experience, Pridham expressed her satisfaction with representing Ottawa, emphasizing the city’s appeal and the growing support from fans.
Rapid FC’s CEO, Thomas Gilbert, expressed his confidence in Pridham’s decision to stay, citing ongoing discussions and mutual respect. While the specifics of the contract extension were not disclosed, Pridham’s commitment to Ottawa aligns with the recent appointment of Carmelina Moscato as the team’s new head coach for the upcoming season.
Moscato, a seasoned coach with international experience, underscores the NSL’s ability to attract top-tier talent. Gilbert emphasized the league’s ambition to be among the world’s elite, with player signings like Pridham and Moscato reinforcing this vision.
The league’s proactive approach to talent retention was highlighted by Gilbert and NSL president Christina Litz, who emphasized the importance of providing favorable conditions to keep players within the league. Player movements, according to Litz, are often strategic decisions made collaboratively between clubs and players.
Pridham’s decision to consult with Moscato before extending her contract reflects the positive environment within Ottawa FC. The NSL’s appeal lies in offering players ample playing time and exposure, crucial for those aspiring to represent their national teams.
Recent high-profile signings in the NSL, such as Sabrina D’Angelo and Shelina Zadorsky at AFC Toronto, and Marie-Yasmine (Mimi) Alidou at Montreal Roses, have enhanced the league’s international profile. Litz reiterated the league’s ambition to become a top-five global league and emphasized the significance of Canadian players choosing to compete domestically.
As the NSL evolves, continued signings and contract extensions will signify its progress. The league’s unique selling point for Canadian players is the opportunity to compete at home, near their families and friends, a factor that resonates strongly with many players dedicated to the league’s growth.