Ottawa native and one of the NSL’s leading attacking midfielders commits to her hometown club

OTTAWA, ON – July 27, 2026 – Ottawa Rapid FC announced today that midfielder Keera Melenhorst has signed a contract extension that will keep her with the club through the 2027 Northern Super League season.

The Ottawa native has emerged as an important part of the Rapid’s midfield since joining the club ahead of the 2026 season. Through the club’s first 13 matches, Melenhorst has recorded five goals and four assists, placing her tied for third in the NSL in goals and tied for the league lead in assists.

Her performances have helped Ottawa move to the top of the NSL standings.

“Keera brings energy, intelligence and unpredictability to our midfield,” said Ottawa Rapid FC Sporting Director Kristina Kiss. “She is comfortable in different roles, competes every time she steps onto the field and continues to find ways to influence matches. She also understands what it means to represent this city, and we are very pleased that she has committed to continuing her career in Ottawa.”

Melenhorst grew up playing soccer in Ottawa, including with West Ottawa Soccer Club, before joining Canada’s national development program. She represented Canada at the 2022 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup and later helped the country qualify for the inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup.

She played NCAA soccer with the Oklahoma Sooners and Pittsburgh Panthers before beginning her professional career with Linköpings FC in Sweden. Following the club’s 2025 season, she returned home to join the Rapid.

“Playing professionally in Ottawa has been even more special than I imagined,” said Melenhorst. “I grew up here, my family and so many of the people who helped me become the player I am are here, and being able to represent this city means a lot to me. From the moment I joined the Rapid, I felt at home. It is such a positive environment, and I am surrounded by teammates and staff who push me to keep improving while allowing me to play with confidence and be myself. I am proud of what we are building, and I am excited to continue that journey with this group.”

Melenhorst made an immediate impact in her first match at TD Place, recording two goals and an assist in a 5-2 victory over Calgary Wild FC on her 23rd birthday.

Her versatility allows her to play in several midfield roles, while her ability to turn in tight spaces, create chances and contribute in front of goal has made her one of the league’s most productive players in 2026.

“Keera represents so much of what we want this club to be,” said Ottawa Rapid FC CEO Thomas Gilbert. “She is an exciting young Canadian player, she has a strong connection to the community and she has embraced the responsibility of helping build a professional club in her hometown. We are delighted that she will remain part of the Rapid’s future.”

Melenhorst and Ottawa Rapid FC return to TD Place on Aug 9 at 2. p.m. when they host AFC Toronto.  Fans have an opportunity to celebrate Keera’s extension with her after the match on the pitch. (Potentially note fan zone) Tickets are available at rapidfc.ca.

Media availability

Date: Monday, July 27, 2026

Time: 1:30 p.m. ET

Location: RA Centre

Meeting point: House of Sport reception

Available for interviews

Keera Melenhorst, midfielder, Ottawa Rapid FC

Kristina Kiss, technical director, Ottawa Rapid FC

Please RSVP to PR@rapidfc.ca. 

Media contact:
Carrie Croft
Ottawa Rapid FC
carrie@rapidfc.ca