Marisa DiGrande Bio
Marisa Marie DiGrande (née Viggiano; born February 5, 1997) is an American professional soccer player who plays as a midfielder for Racing Louisville FC of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). She attended Northwestern University from 2015 to 2018 where she earned a degree in communication studies. DiGrande has played for various teams, including Motor City FC, Orlando Pride, and Houston Dash before signing with Racing Louisville FC in December 2023.
Early Life and Background
Marisa DiGrande was born in Troy, Michigan. Coming out of high school, she was recognized as the No. 25 recruit in the nation and the No. 5 recruit in the Great Lakes Region by TopDrawerSoccer.com. Her early exposure to soccer came through playing three seasons of club soccer for Michigan Hawks ECNL, which helped shape her skills and passion for the sport.
Path to Soccer
DiGrande attended Northwestern University, where she played for the Northwestern Wildcats from 2015 to 2018. During her collegiate career, she made a significant impact by starting every game, achieving a streak that continued through 83 games into her senior year, marking the third-longest streak in program history. She also ranks second all-time in program assists with 20. In the off-seasons, DiGrande played with her hometown Women’s Premier Soccer League side, Motor City FC, further honing her skills and gaining valuable experience.
Marisa DiGrande Career
Early Career (2018)
DiGrande began her professional career in 2018 when she played for Motor City FC. Her performance in the league caught the attention of scouts, leading to her selection in the fourth round (30th overall) of the 2019 NWSL College Draft by Orlando Pride. She officially signed with the team on April 10, 2019, and made her professional debut shortly after on April 27 against Utah Royals FC.
Breakthrough (2019-2021)
DiGrande’s breakthrough moment came on July 20, 2019, when she scored her first professional goal, a game-winner in a 1–0 victory over Sky Blue FC. This goal was nominated for Goal of the Week, highlighting her potential as a rising star in the league. Despite the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, DiGrande finished as Orlando Pride’s top scorer with two goals in four appearances. Ahead of the 2021 season, she signed a new two-year contract with the option for an additional year, solidifying her place on the team.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout her career, Marisa DiGrande has established herself as a talented midfielder, known for her scoring ability and playmaking skills. Her notable achievements include being a key player for Orlando Pride and her recent signing with Racing Louisville FC, where she aims to continue her growth and impact in the league.
Marisa DiGrande Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Marisa DiGrande has received recognition for her performances, particularly during her time at Northwestern University and in the NWSL, although specific award nominations have not been detailed in the available information.
Marisa DiGrande Awards Won
While specific awards won by Marisa DiGrande are not listed, her contributions to her teams and her collegiate achievements indicate a successful career trajectory in soccer.
Marisa DiGrande Family
Marisa DiGrande is married to Danny DiGrande as of January 2024. She has a younger sister, Natalie Viggiano, who is also a soccer player currently at the OL Reign. Their father, Tom Viggiano, has a notable background in sports, having played and coached ice hockey at Kent State University and being inducted into the KSU Athletic Hall of Fame in 2013.
Personal Life
Marisa DiGrande maintains a private personal life, focusing primarily on her professional career. Her marriage to Danny DiGrande marks a significant milestone in her life, and she continues to support her sister’s soccer endeavors while pursuing her own career in the NWSL.