Delaney Baie (DB) Pridham, who is known as the first recipient of the Golden Boot award and Player of the Year in the Northern Super League, has signed an extension to her contract with Rapid FC until the end of the 2028 season. Aged 28, she has netted 28 goals in the first two seasons of the NSL and has represented the Canadian national women’s team on multiple occasions. She is anticipated to be part of the team this autumn as Canada strives to secure a spot in the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Originally from Saratoga, California, Pridham, an alumna of Santa Clara University, has previously played for IBV in Iceland and Kristianstads DFF and Linköpings FC in Sweden. Nonetheless, she takes great pride in her time playing in Ottawa. Pridham expressed her enthusiasm for the club’s strong foundation and the promising future envisioned by the new owners. She highlighted her contentment with the beautiful city and the expanding fan base.
Thomas Gilbert, the CEO of Rapid FC, expressed no surprise at Pridham’s decision to remain with the club, stating that discussions about her contract extension had been ongoing since the previous year. He commended her dedication and drive, believing that a suitable offer aligned with her market value would secure her commitment to the team.
The financial terms of the contract extension were not disclosed. Pridham is not the sole Canadian talent to have joined Ottawa, as former national team player Carmelina Moscato has been appointed as the head coach for the upcoming season, succeeding Katrine Pederson. Moscato brings a wealth of coaching experience from various countries, including the U.S., Denmark, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia.
Gilbert emphasized that the influx of top-tier talent to the NSL, such as Pridham and Moscato, signifies the league’s ambition to become one of the premier leagues globally. While player movement to other leagues is a common occurrence, Gilbert and NSL president Christina Litz emphasized the proactive measures taken to create an environment that entices players to stay.
Pridham revealed that a conversation with Moscato played a pivotal role in her decision to extend her stay with Ottawa FC. She praised Moscato as both a person and a coach, instilling confidence in her commitment to the club. The NSL offers players valuable playing time and experience, especially for those aspiring to represent the national team.
Recent signings in the NSL 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 international stage. Litz emphasized the league’s goal to be among the top five leagues globally, with the continuous focus on attracting and retaining top talents.
As the NSL’s prominence grows, player signings and contract extensions serve as indicators of its success. The league’s emphasis on providing a home environment for Canadian players, allowing them to be close to family and friends, adds a significant appeal for players opting to play in the NSL.