Jess Fishlock Extends Tenure with Seattle Reign FC for Another Year

Jess Fishlock, a prominent player for Seattle Reign FC, has recently concluded her international career with Wales after two decades of service. However, her commitment to the club continues, as she has signed a new one-year contract that will keep her with the Reign until 2026. This extension will mark nearly 14 years of her remarkable journey in Seattle.

Reflecting on her recent experiences, Fishlock expressed a renewed sense of purpose after returning from the UEFA Women’s Euro. “When I came back from the Euros, I just felt a little different. Something had shifted in what I wanted to do and where I wanted to go. I’m still such a competitor; that will never leave me, which is a gift,” she shared with ESPN. Fishlock emphasized her desire to bring a championship to Seattle, highlighting her ongoing commitment to the team.

Fishlock holds the distinction of being the only player in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) who remains active with the original team since the league’s inception in 2013. Her longtime teammate, Lauren Barnes, also shared this honor until her retirement at the end of the 2025 season. The Reign faced a challenging end to that season, exiting in the quarterfinals against the Orlando Pride.

Only two other players from the inaugural NWSL season are still active: Chicago Stars goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher and Angel City forward Sydney Leroux, both of whom have played for multiple teams. Naeher is currently without a contract, while Leroux took a mental health leave during the 2025 season.

Fishlock has been a key player for the Reign, contributing to their successful NWSL Shield-winning seasons in 2014 and 2015. Additionally, she was named NWSL MVP in 2021, boasting an impressive record of 48 goals and 30 assists for Seattle, the highest in the club’s history.

As she approaches her 39th birthday in January, Fishlock led the Reign in scoring in 2025 with six goals and two assists. She noted a resurgence of joy at the start of the 2025 season, especially with a new generation of players joining the team and under the guidance of new ownership.

“For me, it’s always been about my body. My football knowledge and experience will always be there; the real question is whether my body can keep up with my mind, and so far, it has,” Fishlock stated. She expressed gratitude for the Reign organization, which has allowed her to manage her physical condition effectively.

Fishlock’s decision to sign a one-year deal provides her the flexibility to continuously assess her physical capabilities. Reign head coach Laura Harvey praised Fishlock’s tactical awareness and ability to elevate her teammates: “Jess sees the game at a level that very few players do. Her experience and presence in the locker room are invaluable as we move into 2026.”

Last month, Fishlock announced her retirement from international play after leading Wales to the final stage of the Women’s European Championship for the first time in 2025. She made history by scoring Wales’ first goal in the tournament, becoming the oldest goalscorer in Women’s Euro history. Despite contemplating continuing with the national team, she is eager to focus entirely on her club career, a first for her.

Having experienced both triumphs and challenges with Seattle—winning three NWSL Shields and facing three defeats in NWSL Championship matches—Fishlock’s connection to the club runs deep. She has witnessed the team’s journey through various changes in location, ownership, and branding, which only strengthens her bond.

“There’s something special about going through this journey with a singular club. The highs and lows create a deeper connection with both the team and its fan base, making the triumphs that much sweeter and the setbacks more poignant,” she said.

Fishlock concluded by emphasizing her commitment to building her career in Seattle, inspired by the profound meaning the club holds in her life.