Delaney Baie (DB) Pridham, the inaugural Golden Boot recipient and Player of the Year in the Northern Super League, has agreed to a contract extension with Rapid FC until the end of the 2028 season. With 28 goals to her name in the first two NSL seasons, the 28-year-old has also represented the Canadian national women’s team on several occasions. She is set to feature in the upcoming fall season as Canada aims to secure a spot in the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Originally from Saratoga, California, Pridham, who attended Santa Clara University, has plied her trade with various clubs, including IBV in Iceland, Kristianstads DFF, and Linköpings FC in Sweden. Despite her international experience, Pridham takes great pride in playing for Ottawa and expressed her enthusiasm for the club’s future under new ownership.
Thomas Gilbert, the CEO of Rapid FC, revealed that discussions regarding Pridham’s contract extension had been ongoing since the previous year. He emphasized Pridham’s dedication and drive, which made her decision to remain with the club unsurprising. The specifics of the contract extension were not disclosed.
In addition to Pridham’s continued presence, Ottawa has also secured the services of Carmelina Moscato as the head coach for the upcoming season, replacing Katrine Pederson. Moscato, a former national team player with coaching experience in various countries, joins the club, further highlighting the caliber of talent attracted to the NSL.
While player movement between leagues is a consideration, both Gilbert and NSL president Christina Litz emphasized the league’s proactive approach to retain talent by offering competitive conditions and contract values. Pridham credited her decision to extend her contract to a positive discussion with Moscato, reinforcing her commitment to Ottawa FC.
The NSL provides a platform for players to gain valuable experience and playing time, crucial for those aspiring to represent their national teams. Recent signings in the league, including Sabrina D’Angelo and Shelina Zadorsky at AFC Toronto, and Marie-Yasmine (Mimi) Alidou at Montreal Roses, underscore the league’s growing international appeal.
Litz highlighted the NSL’s ambition to become a top-tier league globally and emphasized the importance of retaining top talent. The ability for Canadian players to compete in their home country, near family and friends, serves as a significant motivator for players choosing to play in the NSL. As the league expands, signings and contract extensions will serve as markers of its progress and success.