Desiree Scott to retire from soccer at end of Ottawa Rapid FC season

Canadian soccer legend Desiree Scott will hang up her cleats following the conclusion of the Ottawa Rapid FC’s inaugural campaign.

Scott announced Monday morning she will retire from professional football at the end of the Northern Super League season this fall.

“Being a part of the Northern Super League and representing the Ottawa Rapid in its historic, inaugural season has been an amazing journey,” Scott said in a release.

“Closing out the final chapter of my playing career here on Canadian soil, in front of incredible fans in a professional league once dreamed of, has been my honour.”

Scott appeared in 188 games for Canada’s women’s national team, winning a gold medal at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo and two Olympic bronze medals in 2012 and 2016.

The midfielder, known as “The Destroyer,” has one goal and one assist for the Rapid FC in their inaugural season.

“I’m so grateful for this part of my journey and to have had the opportunity to represent the city of Ottawa, its fans, and this club,” Scott said.

“Thank you as well to the staff, coaches, and my wonderful teammates at Ottawa Rapid for bringing this Destroyer home, creating unforgettable memories, and allowing me to be part of something truly special.”

The Rapid FC say it will host a special celebration in honour of Scott’s career during the final regular-season home game on Oct. 8 at TD Place.

“From day 1, Desiree Scott embodied what we aspire to be as a club, as a league, and as Canadians,” Thomas Gilbert, CEO of Ottawa Rapid FC, said.

“She humbly leads and supports her team, she is unbound by expectations or limitations, and she works with a drive and perseverance that is inspiring not just to her teammates on the field, but to the whole organization. Through this season, Desiree Scott hasn’t just made Rapid FC better, she has defined what it means to be a member of this organization.”

Scott played her final international game for Canada in May.