Ottawa Rapid FC announced the signing of Canadian Olympic gold medalist Desiree Scott Tuesday ahead of the Northern Super League’s inaugural season.
The 37-year-old midfielder joins Ottawa’s new professional women’s soccer team after three seasons and 44 appearance with FC Kansas City of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).
“Having professional soccer come to Canada – the country I’ve been so fortunate to represent for so many years – is something we’ve all been fighting and waiting for,” said Scott via a club statement Tuesday. “It’s incredibly exciting to be part of this league and to join Ottawa in its inaugural season.
“My goal is to continue growing the game, inspiring those around me, and helping to build this league alongside incredible teammates and friends like Diana Matheson, Steph Labbé, and Christine Sinclair. We’ve long talked about the need for a professional league for Canadian athletes, and seeing it come to life is truly a dream come true.”
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Winnipeg-born Scott has represented Canada at four Olympic Games and three World Cups. She won a gold medal at Tokyo 2020 and a bronze medal at London 2012 and Rio 2016.
“With her wealth of experience, exceptional leadership, and extraordinary on-field abilities, Desiree embodies the qualities that will elevate us both on and off the field,”said Ottawa Rapid FC Technical Director Kristina Kiss via the same statement. “Her ability to read the game and guide her teammates is a rare and invaluable asset, and we’re confident that her presence will inspire our players to reach new heights.
“We are excited to see the positive impact she will undoubtedly have, both as a leader and as a cornerstone of our midfield.”
The Northern Super League is Canada’s first professional women’s soccer league. The NSL is set to kick off in spring of 2025 and currently has six clubs named for its inaugural season.
