Delaney Baie (DB) Pridham, the inaugural Golden Boot recipient and Player of the Year in the Northern Super League, has prolonged her tenure with Rapid FC until the conclusion of the 2028 season. Having netted 28 goals during the first two NSL seasons, the 28-year-old also boasts numerous appearances with the Canadian national women’s team, positioning herself for inclusion in the squad this autumn as Canada vies for a spot in the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Originally from Saratoga, California, Pridham is an alumna of Santa Clara University and has previously plied her trade with IBV in Iceland, as well as Kristianstads DFF and Linköpings FC in Sweden. Despite her international ventures, Pridham takes immense pride in representing Ottawa. She expressed her enthusiasm for the club’s trajectory under new ownership, emphasizing her contentment with the vibrant city and the burgeoning fan base.
Thomas Gilbert, the CEO of Rapid FC, affirmed his lack of surprise at Pridham’s decision to remain with the club, noting ongoing discussions since the prior year. Gilbert commended Pridham’s unwavering dedication and drive, underscoring the mutual agreement reached based on a competitive offer aligned with her market value.
The specifics of Pridham’s contract extension were undisclosed. Notably, Pridham is not the sole Canadian talent gravitating towards Ottawa, as the appointment of former national team stalwart Carmelina Moscato as the club’s incoming head coach for the upcoming season signals a continuous influx of top-tier personnel into the NSL.
Gilbert highlighted the league’s ambition to rank among the world’s elite, citing marquee signings like Pridham and Moscato as pivotal steps in that direction. While player movement within and outside the NSL remains a constant consideration, both Gilbert and NSL president Christina Litz emphasized the proactive measures taken to foster an environment conducive to player retention.
Pridham disclosed that a conversation with Moscato influenced her decision to prolong her stay at Ottawa FC, citing her admiration for Moscato’s coaching acumen. The NSL’s appeal lies in providing players with valuable playing time and exposure crucial for national team aspirations, distinguishing it from higher-profile international clubs.
Recent acquisitions such as Sabrina D’Angelo and Shelina Zadorsky at AFC Toronto, along with Marie-Yasmine (Mimi) Alidou at Montreal Roses, underscore the NSL’s attractiveness to accomplished players, including those with international pedigrees. The league’s aspiration to rank among the top five globally is reinforced by the preference of elite athletes, such as Pridham, to ply their trade in Canada.
As the NSL evolves, signings and contract extensions will serve as benchmarks of progress. Additionally, the NSL’s unique appeal to Canadian players, offering a sense of homecoming and proximity to loved ones, underscores the personal commitment exhibited by players opting to contribute to the league’s growth and success.