As the Ottawa Rapid FC heads to the playoffs, a new docuseries takes a behind-the-scenes look at not just the team but also the athletes at the heart of the club’s success. ‘Flight Path’ is a six-part series that will premiere on the team’s YouTube channel, with the first episode expected to launch on Monday. “It’s a great way for people to get an inside look,” said Ottawa Rapid FC attacker DB Pridham. “Everyone just sees us on the game days and what we do on the field and perform it on the field, and no one really sees what’s happening behind the scenes.” It’s an inside look at the athletes that make this team. “My hopes are just for people to see who we are as people,” said Pridham. “Kind of get to know us in a different way, like, off the field,” said midfielder Keera Melenhorst. Showing not just what it takes to make it, but also the ups and downs on and off the field. “A lot of hard work,” said defender Olivia Scott, “You’ll have to see in the documentary, but it’s day in, day out. Lots of laughs, tears, cheering, and sadness.” And perhaps, a chance to inspire the next generation of athletes. “For young girls and young athletes viewing in general, I think it’ll kind of show them the path that we took to get to where we are and the opportunities that arise from sport and also just our lives in general,” said Melenhorst. Ottawa Rapid FC’s chief marketing officer, Shawna Newberry, says it’s a way of connecting with fans and the city. “Marketing in itself is really about storytelling. And a docuseries is the most pure version of that. You get to see the athletes in a different way than you see on the pitch.” The Ottawa Rapid FC finished second in the Northern Super League’s regular season. Fans and players are excited as the team heads to the playoffs this weekend. “We’ve trained hard, we’ve worked hard,” said Melenhorst. “Everyone’s hungry just to be in a playoff spot right now,” said Scott.
