Delaney Baie Pridham, the inaugural winner of the Golden Boot and Player of the Year in the Northern Super League, has agreed to prolong her tenure with Rapid FC until the end of the 2028 season. With 28 goals under her belt from the first two NSL seasons and a history of playing for the Canada national women’s team, she is set to be a key player as Canada vies for a spot in the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Born in Saratoga, California, Pridham, 28, is an alumna of Santa Clara University and has previously played for clubs like IBV in Iceland, and Kristianstads DFF and Linköpings FC in Sweden. Despite her international experience, Pridham finds pride in representing Ottawa.
Expressing her contentment with the club’s direction, Pridham stated, “Being part of a strong club with ambitious new owners who have a clear vision for its future excites me. Ottawa is a beautiful city, and our fan base is continually growing, which makes me really happy.”
Thomas Gilbert, Rapid FC’s CEO, shared that Pridham’s decision to stay was not unexpected, as discussions about her contract extension had been ongoing for over a year. He emphasized her dedication and drive, stating, “DB’s unwavering commitment and determination made me confident that if we presented a competitive offer, she would engage with us.”
Details of the contract extension were not disclosed. Pridham is not the sole Canadian talent making a move to Ottawa; former national team player Carmelina Moscato has been appointed as the head coach for the upcoming season, taking over from Katrine Pederson. Moscato’s coaching history spans across various countries, including the U.S, Denmark, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia.
Gilbert highlighted the caliber of talent being attracted to the NSL, viewing it as a testament to the league’s ambition to become one of the world’s top leagues. The league’s proactive approach to player retention, despite potential moves to other leagues, is aimed at creating an environment where players are motivated to stay.
Pridham credited her decision to remain at Ottawa FC to a positive discussion with Moscato, emphasizing the coach’s influence on her choice. The NSL provides players with significant playing time and exposure, particularly valuable for those eyeing national team selections.
Recent acquisitions of top players like Sabrina D’Angelo and Shelina Zadorsky at AFC Toronto, and Marie-Yasmine (Mimi) Alidou at Montreal Roses, underscore the NSL’s appeal to high-caliber athletes. The league’s aim to be among the top five globally is reinforced by the presence of top players like Pridham choosing to compete in the NSL.
As the league expands, player signings and contract extensions will serve as markers of its progress. The sense of homecoming for Canadian players, being close to family and friends, is a significant draw for the NSL, reflecting a personal commitment from players to foster the league’s growth.