Jess Fishlock Extends Tenure with Seattle Reign FC: A Commitment to Excellence

omidbasir- Jess Fishlock, a distinguished midfielder for Seattle Reign FC, has recently announced her retirement from international duty with Wales after an impressive two-decade career. However, she remains committed to her club, having signed a new one-year contract that will extend her tenure in Seattle to nearly 14 years.

Upon returning from the UEFA Women’s Euro, Fishlock expressed a renewed sense of purpose. “When I came back from the Euros, I just felt a little different,” she shared with ESPN. “Something had shifted in what I wanted to do and where I wanted to go. I’m still very much a competitor, and that drive to bring a championship to Seattle is stronger than ever.”

Fishlock holds the unique distinction of being the only player in the NWSL who has remained with her original team since the league’s inception in 2013. Her long-time teammate, Lauren Barnes, also spent every season with Seattle, but retired following the 2025 season, which concluded with the Reign’s defeat in the quarterfinals against the Orlando Pride. Currently, Alyssa Naeher and Sydney Leroux are the only other players from that inaugural season still active in the league, though both have played for multiple teams.

A key contributor to the Reign’s success during the 2014 and 2015 seasons, Fishlock was instrumental in securing two NWSL Shields, and she was named NWSL MVP in 2021. With a remarkable record of 48 goals and 30 assists, she holds the title for the most goal contributions in the club’s history.

As she approaches her 39th birthday in January, Fishlock led the Reign in scoring during the 2025 season with six goals and two assists. She described the excitement of the new season, which features a fresh crop of young players and new ownership, as a source of renewed joy. “It’s always been about my body and whether it can keep up with my mind’s pace. So far, it has,” she noted.

Fishlock emphasized the importance of the Reign organization’s support in managing her physical well-being, allowing her to take necessary breaks. Her recent one-year deal is a strategic choice, giving her the opportunity to assess her fitness throughout the season.

Reign head coach Laura Harvey praised Fishlock’s extraordinary football intelligence, stating, “Jess sees the game at a level that very few players do, and her tactical awareness and commitment to developing those around her are invaluable for our team as we move toward 2026.”

Following her retirement from international competition last month, during which she led Wales to their first major tournament final, Fishlock became the oldest goalscorer in UEFA Women’s Euro history. She reflected on the rejuvenating nature of that experience, admitting she nearly reconsidered her decision to retire from international play. Now, she is eager to concentrate fully on her club career.

Fishlock’s journey with Seattle has been marked by both triumphs—three NWSL Shields—and challenges, including three losses in the NWSL Championship match. Throughout the years, she has witnessed the team’s evolution, including multiple relocations and changes in ownership and branding.

This deep-rooted connection fuels Fishlock’s dedication to the Reign. “Even if I thought about playing elsewhere to win a trophy, it wouldn’t hold the same significance for me,” she remarked.

“Going through this journey with a singular club has created a profound bond with both the team and its fans. The highs feel more exhilarating and the lows more intense because of that connection. My experience in Seattle has been incredibly meaningful, and I have always wanted to build my career here.”