DeLisle's Professional Soccer Journey: From NWSL to Damallsvenskan
The path to professional sports is rarely a straight line, and for goalkeeper DeLisle, the journey has spanned two continents and some of the most competitive leagues in women's soccer. From early challenges in the United States to finding her footing in Sweden, DeLisle's career reflects the resilience required to succeed at the elite level.
Early Professional Steps with San Diego Wave
Following the conclusion of her college eligibility, DeLisle entered the 2024 NWSL (National Women's Soccer League) Draft. Although she was not selected during the draft, she persisted by training as a non-rostered invitee with San Diego Wave FC during the 2024 preseason.
Her perseverance paid off on July 18, when she signed a short-term national team replacement contract. However, her time with the Wave was brief; she was released on August 9 without making an official appearance for the club.
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Finding Success in Sweden with IFK Norrköping
In September 2024, DeLisle transitioned to European soccer, signing with IFK Norrköping in the Damallsvenskan, the top flight of women's football in Sweden. The departure of goalkeeper Emma Lind created an opening for DeLisle to compete for a starting position.
She made her professional debut on September 23, 2024, in a 2–2 draw against Djurgårdens IF. This performance sparked a run of five consecutive starts, bringing her total appearances for her debut season to six.
During her second season in Sweden, DeLisle shared goalkeeping duties with teammate Sofia Hjern. She appeared in 13 Damallsvenskan matches and successfully recorded four clean sheets (games where the opposing team fails to score). Her tenure with the club concluded on November 6, 2025, when it was announced she would depart upon the expiration of her contract.
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Return to the NWSL with Houston Dash
On January 22, 2026, DeLisle returned to the United States, signing a one-year contract with the Houston Dash. Her return to the NWSL culminated in her league debut on May 20, 2026.
Entering the match as a second-half substitute for the injured starter, Jane Campbell, DeLisle faced a poetic challenge: playing against her former club, the San Diego Wave. The match ended in a 2–2 draw.
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Key Facts
- Professional Debut: September 23, 2024, with IFK Norrköping.
- NWSL Debut: May 20, 2026, with Houston Dash.
- Swedish Career: Recorded 4 clean sheets across 13 appearances in her second season with IFK Norrköping.
- Career Path: San Diego Wave (non-rostered/short-term) → IFK Norrköping → Houston Dash.
Career Summary Table
| Club | League | Period | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Diego Wave FC | NWSL | 2024 | Signed national team replacement contract |
| IFK Norrköping | Damallsvenskan | 2024–2025 | 4 clean sheets in second season |
| Houston Dash | NWSL | 2026–Present | Made NWSL debut on May 20, 2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did DeLisle make her professional debut?
DeLisle made her professional debut on September 23, 2024, playing for IFK Norrköping in a 2–2 draw against Djurgårdens IF.
How many clean sheets did she record in Sweden?
During her second season with IFK Norrköping, DeLisle recorded four clean sheets in 13 Damallsvenskan appearances.
Which NWSL team did she sign with in 2026?
DeLisle signed a one-year contract with the Houston Dash on January 22, 2026.
Who did she replace during her NWSL debut?
She entered the match as a second-half substitute for the injured starter, Jane Campbell.
Did she play any official matches for San Diego Wave FC?
No, despite training as a non-rostered invitee and signing a short-term replacement contract, she did not make any appearances for San Diego before being released.