Delaney Baie (DB) Pridham, the inaugural Golden Boot recipient and Player of the Year in the Northern Super League (NSL), has prolonged her tenure with Rapid FC until the conclusion of the 2028 campaign. Aged 28, Pridham has netted 28 goals in the NSL’s initial two seasons and boasts numerous appearances with Canada’s national women’s team. She is anticipated to feature in the upcoming fall roster as Canada vies for qualification in the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Hailing from Saratoga, Calif., Pridham, an alumna of Santa Clara University, has plied her trade with various clubs including IBV in Iceland and Kristianstads DFF and Linköpings FC in Sweden. Despite her international ventures, Pridham cherishes her time in Ottawa, expressing delight in the city’s allure and the burgeoning support from the fan base.
Thomas Gilbert, the CEO of Rapid FC, expressed no surprise at Pridham’s decision to remain with the club, citing ongoing discussions dating back to the preceding year. Gilbert praised Pridham’s dedication and drive, emphasizing the club’s endeavor to provide a deserving offer that aligns with her market value.
The contractual terms of the extension remain undisclosed. Pridham’s commitment to Ottawa reflects a broader trend of Canadian talent gravitating towards the NSL, exemplified by the appointment of Carmelina Moscato as the club’s new head coach for the upcoming season. Moscato brings a wealth of coaching experience from various countries, reinforcing the NSL’s status as an attractive destination for top-tier talent.
While player movement across leagues is a common occurrence, both Gilbert and NSL president Christina Litz affirm proactive measures to ensure player retention through competitive conditions and contract values. Mutual discussions between players and clubs often underpin decisions regarding transfers, emphasizing the significance of personal considerations alongside strategic club objectives.
Pridham’s decision to consult with Moscato underscored her commitment to Ottawa FC, citing a positive interaction that influenced her choice to extend her stay. The NSL’s appeal lies in providing players with substantial playing time and exposure crucial for national team aspirations, a draw that has enticed notable players like Sabrina D’Angelo and Shelina Zadorsky to AFC Toronto and Marie-Yasmine (Mimi) Alidou to Montreal Roses.
Litz envisions the NSL as a premier global league, attracting top talents and nurturing a diverse international player pool. The league’s growth trajectory hinges on securing high-profile signings and contract extensions, underscoring the significance of players’ proximity to home as a key factor in their decision-making process. The ethos of supporting and contributing to the league’s advancement resonates strongly with players who opt to compete in the NSL despite opportunities elsewhere.