Janika Nikander

Janika Nikander, 31, is set for her 10th season of football in 2024. Standing 5'7" and weighing 165 lbs, she has played for teams such as the Helsinki Wolverines (FIN), Stuttgart Scorpions (GER), and Carlstad Crusaders (SWE).

Starting her football career in 2014, Janika has a rich background in sports, including floorball, Finnish baseball, and over a decade in competitive karate. She’s excited to join the D.C. Divas, eager for new experiences and challenges in a different league.

A sports massage therapist, podiatrist, and strength & conditioning coach, Janika specializes in change of direction skills, power, and game speed development. She is available for community and marketing events daily and can adjust her schedule for practices and games.

Janika's favorite sports memory is winning her first karate competition, which confirmed her potential in sports. She values health, family, and sports, and believes in focusing on what can be controlled. Friends, coaches, and teammates describe her as "loud."

Outside football, Janika enjoys arts, playing guitar, and is learning knitting and crocheting. She loves "90 Day Fiancé," liver casserole, and prefers travel near water or mountains. Her favorite book is "Where the Crawdads Sing," and she admires Finnish ex-pro boxer Eva Wahlström.

Follow Janika on Facebook (Janika Nikander) and Instagram (@nikamander). Her passion and diverse skills make her a standout addition to the D.C. Divas.