Jess Fishlock Extends Tenure with Seattle Reign FC Amid New Beginnings

omidbasir- Jess Fishlock, the esteemed midfielder of Seattle Reign FC, has recently concluded her international career with Wales after two decades, but her journey in club football is far from over. She has signed a new one-year contract to remain with the Reign through 2026, marking nearly 14 years with the organization.

Reflecting on her return from the UEFA Women’s Euro, Fishlock expressed a renewed sense of purpose. “When I came back from the Euros, I felt a shift in my aspirations and direction. My competitive spirit remains strong, which is both a blessing and a challenge. After 14 years, I am still determined to bring a championship to Seattle,” she told ESPN.

Fishlock stands out as the only player in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) still active with her original team since the league’s inception in 2013. Her longtime teammate, Lauren Barnes, has also been with the Reign since 2013 but announced her retirement at the conclusion of the 2025 season, following a quarterfinal exit against the Orlando Pride.

In addition to Fishlock, Chicago Stars goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher and Angel City forward Sydney Leroux are the only other players from the inaugural season still competing in the NWSL, though both have represented multiple teams. Naeher’s future remains uncertain as her contract has expired, and Leroux took the previous season off for mental health reasons.

Fishlock played a pivotal role in the Reign’s success during the 2014 and 2015 seasons, both of which culminated in NWSL Shield victories. She was named NWSL MVP in 2021 and has been selected to the NWSL Best XI seven times, amassing 48 goals and 30 assists—making her the all-time leader in goal contributions for the club.

Approaching her 39th birthday in January, Fishlock led the Reign in scoring during 2025 with six goals and two assists. She shared her feelings of rejuvenation at the beginning of the 2025 season amidst a transition within the team, welcoming new young talent and adapting to new ownership.

“For me, it’s always been about my body. My football intelligence and experience will always be there, but the question is whether my body can keep up with my mindset,” she explained. Fishlock appreciates the Reign organization for allowing her to manage her physical well-being, which she credits to the strong relationships she has built in Seattle.

Fishlock believes that a one-year contract is ideal for her to continually assess her physical condition.

Reign head coach Laura Harvey praised Fishlock’s exceptional vision and tactical awareness, stating, “Jess sees the game at a level few can match, thanks to her extensive experience. Her ability to adapt and uplift those around her is crucial for our team’s progress. Her leadership and presence in the locker room are invaluable as we look ahead to 2026.”

After guiding Wales to the final stage of the UEFA Women’s European Championship for the first time in 2025, Fishlock announced her retirement from international play last month. Her historic performance included being the oldest goalscorer in Women’s Euro history, and while she felt revitalized by this achievement, she is eager to concentrate on her club career.

Fishlock’s journey in Seattle has been marked by both triumphs—three NWSL Shields—and challenges, including three losses in NWSL Championship matches. She has witnessed the team’s evolution through relocations, ownership changes, and branding efforts as it sought to solidify its presence within the community.

Her bond with the club drives her commitment, as she stated, “Even if I considered playing elsewhere for a trophy, it wouldn’t hold the same significance. There’s something unique about navigating this journey with a single club—experiencing the highs and lows, rebuilding, and connecting with fan bases that deepens the meaning behind it all.”

Fishlock concluded, “I come from a background in Europe where stability is more common, but since moving to Seattle, I have never wanted to leave. Building my career here has immense personal significance for me.”