As the countdown to April’s inaugural Northern Super League season continues, teams across Canada have been busy strengthening their rosters with a mix of local talent and international stars. This past week saw another wave of signings, setting the stage for a thrilling debut season. Let’s break down the latest additions and what they bring to their respective clubs.
Calgary Wild FC: A Family Affair & International Talent
Calgary Wild FC made waves by securing a dynamic duo in twins Taegan and Keelyn Stewart, both local products from Calgary, Alberta. The highly touted siblings add depth and chemistry to the squad, promising exciting link-up play.
On the international front, Calgary bolstered their backline with Ally Green, a fullback from Sydney, Australia, who represents the New Zealand National Team. Green brings top-level experience and defensive solidity, making her a key player to watch.
Halifax Tides: Attacking Powerhouse in the Making
The Halifax Tides have built an attack-heavy squad, adding three forwards with diverse playing backgrounds. Daphnée Blouin, a Quebec City native, joins from Turkish club Fatih Vatan, while Milly Clegg, an exciting young talent from Auckland, arrives on loan from Racing Louisville FC. Japanese striker Megumi Nakamura, formerly of AC Nagano Parceiro, adds another layer of offensive prowess.
Defensively, Halifax has secured Éva Fremaux from FC Nantes, bringing a wealth of experience to the backline. Rounding out their signings is Sarah Taylor, a local midfield talent from Bridgewater, Nova Scotia, eager to make an impact in front of home fans.
Ottawa Rapid FC: European Flair Meets Canadian Grit
Ottawa Rapid FC reinforced its squad with international and domestic signings. Swedish midfielder Ellen Gibson, who previously played for Hammarby IF, brings creativity and technical skill to the center of the park. Meanwhile, Stella Downing, a pacey winger from Vancouver who played for TSS Rovers, adds flair and versatility to Ottawa’s attack.
AFC Toronto: Midfield Domination & Attacking Threats
Toronto wasted no time in assembling a stacked midfield, headlined by Victoria Pickett, a proven playmaker from Barrie, ON, who previously played for North Carolina Courage. Joining her in midfield are Nikayla Small from Wake Forest University and Colby Barnett from Santa Clara University, both offering skill and composure in possession.
The forward line has been bolstered by Shaina Ashouri, who arrives from Vikingur FC, and Kaylee Hunter, a Calgary native fresh from Whitecaps FC. Ashley Cathro, a strong defender from Victoria, BC, adds much-needed defensive coverage.
Vancouver Rise: A Smart Addition to the Backline
Vancouver Rise kept things concise but impactful, bringing in Kayla Goncalves, a fullback from Vaughan, ON, who last played for FC Famalicão in Portugal. With international experience under her belt, Goncalves strengthens Vancouver’s defensive structure.