Delaney Baie (DB) Pridham, the inaugural recipient of the Golden Boot and Player of the Year in the Northern Super League, has agreed to a contract extension with Rapid FC that will keep her at the club until the end of the 2028 season. With an impressive tally of 28 goals in the first two NSL seasons and experience playing for the Canadian national women’s team, the 28-year-old forward is set to play a crucial role as Canada aims to secure a spot in the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Originally from Saratoga, California, Pridham, who studied at Santa Clara University, has previously played for clubs in Iceland and Sweden before finding a sense of belonging in Ottawa. Expressing her enthusiasm about the club’s direction under new ownership, Pridham emphasized her contentment with the vibrant city and the growing support from the fan base.
Thomas Gilbert, the CEO of Rapid FC, expressed confidence in Pridham’s decision to remain with the team, citing ongoing discussions that led to a mutually beneficial agreement. While the specifics of the contract extension were not disclosed, Pridham’s commitment to the club aligns with the recent appointment of Carmelina Moscato as the head coach for the upcoming season, underscoring Ottawa’s ability to attract top-tier talent.
Highlighting the league’s ambition to become one of the premier women’s soccer leagues globally, Gilbert emphasized the strategic approach taken by clubs to retain valuable players like Pridham and Moscato. The dynamic nature of player movements within the NSL is viewed as a natural part of the sport, with both Gilbert and NSL president Christina Litz emphasizing the importance of creating an environment that encourages player retention.
Pridham’s decision to consult with Moscato before extending her contract reflects the positive atmosphere within the club, with the NSL providing a platform for players to showcase their skills and potentially earn national team selections. The recent influx of top talent, including players like Sabrina D’Angelo and Shelina Zadorsky at AFC Toronto, underscores the league’s appeal as a destination for elite athletes aiming to compete at the highest levels.
As the NSL continues to evolve, the focus on securing key signings and extending contracts serves as a barometer of success, while also highlighting the significance of playing in one’s home country for Canadian athletes. The league’s aspiration to rank among the top five women’s soccer leagues globally is bolstered by the commitment of players like Pridham, who choose to contribute to the league’s growth and development by opting to play in Canada.