Vanessa DiBernardo has emerged as the cornerstone of Kansas City Current’s dominance in this year’s NWSL season. As a midfield general, her technical finesse, unmatched field vision, and veteran leadership have been instrumental in shaping the team’s identity.
Vision and Tactical Intelligence
Vanessa DiBernardo has revolutionized the Kansas City Current’s midfield with her elite vision and tactical intelligence. Her ability to read the opposition, control the tempo, and distribute the ball with purpose has allowed the Current to dominate possession and transition seamlessly between phases of play.
She’s constantly scanning the field, anticipating passing lanes before they open, and positioning herself to intercept and launch counterattacks with razor-sharp precision. It’s her mind as much as her feet that makes her one of the most dangerous midfielders in the NWSL.
Technical Skillset That Commands Respect
DiBernardo’s first touch and close control under pressure set her apart. Whether she’s turning out of tight spaces or pinging a 40-yard diagonal to switch play, her technical skill gives Kansas City options in every situation.
Her passing accuracy remains among the league’s best, and she often operates as the team’s metronome—linking defense and attack while giving her teammates the freedom to flourish. Her technical brilliance has been a stabilizing force throughout the 2024 campaign.
The Historic First Goal at CPKC Stadium
On the monumental day CPKC Stadium opened its doors on March 16, 2024, it was Vanessa DiBernardo who etched her name into Kansas City sports history. Her goal—clinical and composed—was the first ever scored at the team’s new home.
The crowd erupted, and DiBernardo’s celebration became an instant icon for the franchise. That moment went beyond the scoreboard—it was symbolic of a new era for the Current, with DiBernardo at its heart. Her goal didn’t just open the scoring at CPKC; it opened the door to a new chapter for Kansas City women’s soccer.
2024 Season Stats That Speak Volumes
DiBernardo’s 2024 season was nothing short of elite. With five goals and five assists to her name, she was directly involved in 10 goals—an outstanding number for a midfielder. Each goal and assist came in pivotal moments, often changing the tide of matches in Kansas City’s favor.
Her scoring and playmaking stats illustrate her evolution from a distributor to a complete threat—someone capable of breaking lines, creating space, and finishing plays with clinical authority.
Named to the NWSL Second XI
Recognition of DiBernardo’s influence came when she was named to the NWSL Second XI—a prestigious honor reserved for the league’s top talents.
This accolade reflects the respect she commands across the league and the consistent excellence she’s displayed throughout the season. It’s a testament not only to her numbers but also to her leadership, work rate, and the intangible qualities that elevate those around her.
Leadership That Transforms Teams
Beyond her technical and tactical prowess, DiBernardo has become the emotional and strategic leader of the Kansas City Current. Her presence in the locker room carries weight. She’s vocal when needed, calm when pressure rises, and always focused on the collective mission. Younger players look to her example both on and off the pitch, as she models professionalism, resilience, and composure in every match and training session.
Mentoring the Next Generation
DiBernardo has embraced her role as a mentor to Kansas City’s younger talents. She takes time to guide them through game scenarios, provides feedback during practices, and supports them through the mental and emotional rigors of professional soccer.
Her mentorship has accelerated the development of several young players who now play key roles for the team. Her impact will be felt in the franchise for years—not just through her play, but through the players she’s shaped.
Engaging With the Kansas City Community
Off the field, DiBernardo has become a visible and active figure in the Kansas City community. She participates in youth clinics, supports local causes, and frequently interacts with fans at events, embodying the values of the Current organization.
Her community engagement helps strengthen the bond between the team and its supporters, fostering a deeper connection that goes beyond matchday. Her presence in the city has made her a true ambassador for women’s soccer in Missouri.
A New Era for Fans With Legal Sports Betting
As the Kansas City Current continues their impressive run in the NWSL, Missouri fans are gearing up for a new way to engage with their favorite team. Starting December 1, legal sports betting will launch across the state, opening the door for fans to place wagers on the Current and other local teams through both retail and online platforms.
Missouri sportsbooks are sure to offer excellent promotions that Current fans can take advantage of to end the year. For a team powered by stars like Vanessa DiBernardo, betting on the Current won’t just be symbolic—it’ll be strategic.
Shaping the Kansas City Current’s Identity
Vanessa DiBernardo has done more than contribute on the stat sheet—she’s helped define what the Kansas City Current stand for. Her relentless drive, unmatched discipline, and genuine connection with the city have turned her into a foundational piece of the franchise’s identity.
Whether it’s controlling the game from midfield or representing the team at community events, DiBernardo has made herself indispensable. Her influence resonates in every aspect of the team’s culture, making her a true icon of the Current’s rise to NWSL prominence.