Former Canada U-20 captain, midfielder Nikayla Small joins AFC Toronto

Former Canada under-20 captain Nikayla Small has signed with AFC Toronto, staying close to home in the new Northern Super League.

The 21-year-old midfielder from Pickering, Ont., arrives from Wake Forest University, where she appeared in 60 games, including 53 starts, with four goals and 15 assists. However an ankle injury sidelined her at the 2024 NCAA women's soccer tournament, where the Demon Deacons lost 1-0 to North Carolina in the championship game.

Small played for Pickering Soccer Club before joining the National Development Centre (NDC) Ontario. She has represented Canada at the under-15, U-17 and U-20 levels. While former Canada coach Bev Priestman called her into camp twice in late 2021, she has yet to earn a senior cap.

In other NSL news, Ottawa Rapid FC signed former Canadian youth international winger Stella Downing.

Small is the latest local player to sign with Toronto.

"Being from Toronto, Nikayla knows what this club represents for our supporters and the next generation of young players," said Wilson. "I have no doubt that she will have a huge influence at our club as we continue developing our project."

From Pickering to the pros.