Canadian soccer star Delaney Baie (DB) Pridham, the first player to win the Golden Boot and Player of the Year in the Northern Super League (NSL), has prolonged her contract with Rapid FC until the 2028 season. Pridham, aged 28, has netted 28 goals in the NSL’s initial two seasons and has also featured prominently for the Canadian national women’s team. She is anticipated to be a key player for Canada’s quest to secure a spot in the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Originally from Saratoga, California, Pridham, an alumna of Santa Clara University, has played for various clubs including IBV in Iceland, and Kristianstads DFF and Linköpings FC in Sweden. Despite her international experience, Pridham values her time in Ottawa, expressing delight in being part of a flourishing club with ambitious new owners.
Rapid FC CEO, Thomas Gilbert, expressed confidence in Pridham’s commitment to the team, noting ongoing discussions that led to the contract extension. The specifics of the deal were not disclosed. Pridham’s decision to remain with the club aligns with the recent appointment of Carmelina Moscato as the head coach for the upcoming season, replacing Katrine Pederson. Moscato’s coaching background in various countries underscores the growing appeal of the NSL for top-tier talent.
The NSL’s ability to attract and retain high-caliber players like Pridham and Moscato reflects the league’s ambition to become a premier global soccer destination. Gilbert and NSL President Christina Litz emphasized the league’s proactive approach to player retention, aiming to provide competitive conditions that encourage athletes to stay within the NSL framework.
In addition to securing top Canadian talent like Pridham, the NSL has also welcomed other notable players such as Sabrina D’Angelo, Shelina Zadorsky at AFC Toronto, and Marie-Yasmine (Mimi) Alidou at Montreal Roses. The league’s multicultural player base adds an international flair, contributing to its aspiration of becoming a top-five league globally.
As the NSL evolves, player signings and contract extensions serve as benchmarks of its progress. Notably, the league’s appeal to Canadian players is enhanced by the opportunity to compete at home and maintain close ties with family and friends. The commitment of players to elevate the NSL’s stature through their participation underscores the collective effort to advance the league’s standing within the global soccer landscape.