For NSL's Ottawa Rapid FC, growing relationships at core of team-building

When tasked with building a professional soccer team from the ground up, there are a few main ingredients involved.

Staff, naturally. Players, of course. Investors, yes. Fans, most definitely. 

But one core ingredient that stands out when speaking to the staff and players of Ottawa Rapid FC of the Northern Super League is relationships. Building strong relationships.

"It's really been at the forefront of everything we do," said Rapid FC's sporting director and former Canadian national team member, Kristina Kiss.

"I've always believed that a team that gets along off the field will perform better on the field, especially in the women's game, and that extends to staff as well. I think we've really brought in good people and that helps build a positive culture." 

When it comes to building relationships, there is probably no one more suited to lead the charge than Katrine Pedersen. 

The UEFA Pro Licence coach (the highest coaching certification in Europe), Pedersen comes to Ottawa after a decorated playing career with Denmark (210 caps) and a lengthy coaching resume. 

What's been her No. 1 focus since taking the job in October 2024?

"Relations. That is the main priority right now and we'll continue to do that," she said on a recent call. "It's special to build a team from the bottom as we've done here. There's an expression that 'they don't care how much you know, until they know how much you care.'

"So we're going to build the culture and we're going to build relationships and of course we're going to get on the same page when it comes to football." 

Susanne Haaland, a former Norwegian youth international and current defender on the Rapid, knows Pedersen well.

Back in Norway, Pedersen coached her high school team and, for a