Jess Fishlock Extends Legacy with Seattle Reign FC

Jess Fishlock, a prominent midfielder for Seattle Reign FC, has recently concluded her international career with Wales after two decades. However, her commitment to club football remains steadfast, as she has signed a new one-year contract to continue her journey with the Reign through 2026. This extension will mark an impressive 14 years with the Seattle organization.

In an interview with ESPN, Fishlock expressed a newfound clarity upon returning from the European Championships, stating, “When I came back from the Euros, I just felt a little different. Something had shifted perhaps in what I wanted to do and where I wanted to go. I still feel like a competitor, which I consider a gift. Despite the passage of time, I am determined to bring a championship to Seattle.”

Notably, Fishlock is the only player remaining in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) who has been with her original team since the league’s inception in 2013. Her longtime teammate, Lauren Barnes, also spent every season in Seattle since 2013 before retiring at the end of the 2025 season. That season saw the Reign eliminated in the quarterfinals against the Orlando Pride.

Only Alyssa Naeher of the Chicago Stars and Sydney Leroux of Angel City remain active from the inaugural season, but both have switched teams over the years. Naeher’s contract status is uncertain for the upcoming season, while Leroux took a mental health leave during 2025.

Fishlock played a crucial role in the Reign’s successful NWSL campaigns in 2014 and 2015, contributing to their Shield victories. She was named NWSL MVP in 2021, having made the Best XI seven times throughout her career. With 48 goals and 30 assists, she holds the record 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 remarked that she found renewed joy at the start of the 2025 season, particularly amidst a transitioning team with new young talent and a fresh ownership group.

Reflecting on her career, Fishlock noted that while her physical condition is a consideration, her football intelligence and experience remain invaluable. “For me, it’s always been about my body. My brain on the field and my football knowledge—those will never fade. What’s important is whether my body can keep up with my mental game, and so far, it has,” she explained.

The Reign organization has supported her in managing her physical health, allowing her to take necessary breaks. Fishlock stated that this arrangement reflects the longstanding relationships she has cultivated in Seattle.

In her remarks regarding her new contract, Fishlock emphasized that a one-year deal allows her to continually assess her physical readiness. Reign head coach Laura Harvey praised Fishlock’s expertise, stating, “Jess sees the game at a level that very few players do, a skill developed through years of experience at the highest level. Her tactical awareness and commitment to uplifting her teammates are crucial as we advance into 2026.”

Fishlock announced her retirement from international play last month following her significant contributions to Wales, leading them to their first major tournament in the Women’s European Championship. She became the oldest goalscorer in Women’s Euro history, further solidifying her legacy.

Despite contemplating her international retirement, Fishlock expressed excitement about focusing exclusively on her club commitments for the first time in her career. Throughout her tenure in Seattle, she has experienced both triumphs—three NWSL Shields—and setbacks, including three NWSL Championship losses.

Having witnessed the team’s evolution through various challenges—relocations, changes in ownership, and branding efforts—Fishlock’s connection to the club runs deep. She articulated that winning a trophy with Seattle would hold far greater significance than achieving success elsewhere.

“Going through this journey with a singular club, experiencing both highs and lows, creates a profound bond with the fan base,” she stated. “This connection enhances the joy of victories while also deepening the sorrow of defeats. The desire to build my career here in Seattle stems from the meaning this club holds for me.”