NJIT women's soccer alumna Maria Nogueira has signed a professional contract with FC Porto, the club announced Wednesday.
Nogueira becomes the third Highlander to sign a professional contract under head coach Ally Nick, joining Angela Harris and Bailey Chant, who signed with Acharnaikos Women FC in Greece.
"Maria's signing with FC Porto is a testament to the hard work she has shown throughout her time at NJIT," said head coach Nick. "From the moment she arrived on campus, she set a high standard for herself and pushed to improve every aspect of her game. She leaves our program as one of the most accomplished players in NJIT history, but what makes me most proud is the person she has become and the impact she has had on our culture. FC Porto is gaining a talented player, a strong competitor, and an amazing person. We are excited to watch her continue pursuing her dreams at the professional level and know she will represent NJIT Women's Soccer."
A native of Cascais, Portugal, Nogueira earned America East First Team All-Conference honors for the first time in her career after helping anchor the Highlanders' back line. She finished the 2025 season with five points on one goal and three assists.
Among her season highlights was a memorable game-winning Olimpico goal against UMass on Aug. 21.
Nogueira ranked second on the team with 1,594 minutes played and logged the full 90 minutes in 16 of NJIT's 18 matches. She also played a key role in helping the Highlanders record five shutouts during the season.
A two-time CSC Academic All-District selection, Nogueira graduated from NJIT in May 2026 with a degree in business.
FC Porto, located in Porto, Portugal, competes in the Campeonato Nacional Feminino, the top division of women's soccer in Portugal. The club captured the league championship during the 2025-26 season.
