Women's Athlete Spotlight: Marissa Carter-Olson Isn't Scared of Hard Work
LA CROSSE, Wis. – Marissa Carter-Olson is a senior catcher on the Viterbo University softball team. Throughout her time at Viterbo, she has made her mark and earned deserved recognition for her accomplishments. She wants everyone to know that female athletes are strong and capable at the highest level.
"Being a female student-athlete means embracing both strength and resilience on and off the field," says Marissa. "It's about representing not only my team and my school, but also showing younger girls that they belong in sports and can succeed at a high level while pursuing their education,".
The senior has a 0.317 career batting average with 139 games and 382 at-bat appearances under her belt. In her freshman year, Marissa earned a 0.386 batting average, the fifth best individual season batting average in V-Hawk softball program history. From a fielding perspective, Marissa had a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage in her junior season though 31 games of competition.
Her accomplishments as a V-Hawk have led to honors that she is proud of.
"Athletically, I'm proud to have earned two conference honors," says Marissa. "First team my freshman year and second team my sophomore year, which reflect the hard work I've put into my sport,".
Marissa has worked hard to be in the position that she is in today. Her accolades and honors do not come without a strong work ethic, resilience, and discipline.
"Participating in college sports has helped me become more disciplined, resilient, and focused," says Marissa. "It has taught me how to manage my time effectively, handle pressure, and work as part of a team. These experiences have helped me grow not just as an athlete, but as a person,".
As she mentioned, Marissa has become an expert in time management and balancing the rigorous schedule of a student-athlete. Between early morning practices, lifting, travel, and competitions, she has still maintained excellent status in the classroom.
Marissa is a three-time conference All-Academic selection and has been recognized twice on the national stage as an NAIA Scholar Athlete.
"I'm most proud of being able to balance both academics and athletics successfully. Maintaining a high GPA while competing at the college level takes a lot of dedication,".
Marissa hopes to inspire the next generation of athletes with hard work. She believes that challenges shape you, and that fighting through difficult times will make you a stronger person on the other side.
"Believe in yourself and don't be afraid to work hard," says Marissa. "There will be challenges but staying consistent and confident will help you push through them. Surround yourself with people who support you and always remember why you started,".
As stated, Marissa encourages young athletes to surround themselves with people that will uplift you. When asked about her role models, Marissa said this:
"I've been inspired by both strong female athletes and the women in my personal life. My mom has been one of my biggest role models because of her work ethic and constant support,".
Following her final season at Viterbo, Marissa wants to continue positively impacting younger athletes. The sports management major plans to continue coaching softball and working with the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers, a minor league baseball team out of Appleton, Wisconsin.
She hopes to encourage the next generation of athletes to not only compete in sports but represent women in a male-dominated sports industry.
"I hope to make an impact by being a positive leader and role model, both on and off the field," says Marissa. "I also hope to continue coaching young girls and be the kind of coach who believes in them and gives them the confidence to pursue their sport at the next level. After graduation, I am completing an internship with the Timber Rattlers, and I think it's important to keep showing the next generation that women are just as capable of working in the sports industry,".
Looking back on her time at Viterbo, Marissa never mentions wanting to be the best, or hoping to have her name in record books. She never mentions anything athletically but rather leaves us with this.
"I want to contribute to a strong team culture where everyone feels supported and motivated,".
The V-Hawk women's softball team has kicked off their 2026 season. Follow along by following @viterbo_softball and @viterbovhawks on Instagram. Check out the V-Hawk softball schedule at www.viterboathletics.com, and come out to a home game to support Marissa and the V-Hawks.