Jess Fishlock Extends Her Legacy with Seattle Reign FC

omidbasir- Jess Fishlock, the esteemed midfielder of Seattle Reign FC, recently announced her retirement from international football after a distinguished two-decade career representing Wales. However, her journey in club football continues as she has signed a new one-year contract with the Reign for the 2026 season, marking an impressive tenure of nearly 14 years in Seattle.

Reflecting on her decision, Fishlock shared with ESPN, “Upon returning from the Euros, I felt a shift in my aspirations and future direction. My competitive spirit remains unwavering, and despite the length of my career, my desire to bring a championship to Seattle is as strong as ever.”

Notably, Fishlock is the only player in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) who has remained with her original team since the league’s inception in 2013. Her long-time teammate, Lauren Barnes, also played every season with Seattle since 2013 but recently retired following the 2025 season, which ended with the Reign’s loss to the Orlando Pride in the quarterfinals.

Among the few players still active from that inaugural season are Chicago Stars goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher and Angel City forward Sydney Leroux, both of whom have played for multiple teams. Naeher has not announced her future plans, as she is currently out of contract, while Leroux took a mental health leave in 2025.

Fishlock was instrumental in the Reign’s dominant performances, contributing to their NWSL Shield victories in 2014 and 2015, and she was named the NWSL MVP in 2021. With 48 goals and 30 assists, she holds the record for the most goal contributions in the club’s history and has been selected for the NWSL’s Best XI seven times.

As she approaches her 39th birthday in January, Fishlock led the Reign in scoring in 2025, netting six goals and providing two assists. She expressed a renewed sense of joy at the start of the 2025 season, particularly in light of the team’s transition with a new cohort of young players and the establishment of new ownership.

“For me, it’s always been about my body,” Fishlock remarked. “My football knowledge and experience will always be there, but the real question is whether my body can keep pace with my mind. So far, it has.”

She praised the Reign organization for enabling her to manage her physical condition effectively, crediting her long-standing relationships within the club for that support.

Fishlock noted that her one-year contract allows her the flexibility to assess her physical condition continually. Reign head coach Laura Harvey emphasized Fishlock’s exceptional insight and leadership, stating, “Jess possesses a level of understanding of the game that is rare. Her tactical awareness and commitment to uplifting those around her are invaluable as we progress into 2026.”

After guiding Wales to the final stage of the Women’s European Championship for the first time in 2025, Fishlock became the oldest goalscorer in Women’s Euro history. Although the experience nearly led her to reconsider her retirement from international play, she is now focused solely on her club career, a first for her.

Having experienced both the triumphs—three NWSL Shields—and the disappointments—three championship match losses—Fishlock has witnessed the club’s evolution, including its relocation between Seattle and Tacoma and various ownership and branding changes.

“There’s something uniquely special about being part of a singular club throughout its journey,” Fishlock reflected. “Experiencing both the highs and lows deepens the connection with the club and its fans, making the eventual successes even sweeter.”

“Having come from Europe, where stability is more common, I have never wanted to leave Seattle. I am committed to building my career here, as it holds profound significance for me.”