Jess Fishlock Extends Tenure with Seattle Reign FC Amid New Beginnings

omidbasir- Jess Fishlock, the renowned midfielder of Seattle Reign FC, has recently concluded her international career with Wales after an impressive two-decade run. However, she remains committed to her club, having signed a new one-year contract that will extend her tenure with the Reign until 2026, marking nearly 14 years in Seattle.

Reflecting on her recent return from the Euros, Fishlock expressed a shift in her aspirations. “When I came back from the Euros, I just felt a little different,” she shared with ESPN. “Something had shifted perhaps in what I wanted to do and where I wanted to go. I still have a strong competitive spirit, a gift that will never fade. Even after 14 years, my desire to bring a championship to Seattle remains strong.”

Notably, Fishlock is the only player 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 with Seattle since the league’s launch, retiring after the 2025 season in which the Reign faced a quarterfinal exit against the Orlando Pride.

Among active players from the inaugural season, only Chicago Stars goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher and Angel City forward Sydney Leroux remain, both of whom have played for multiple teams. Naeher has yet to announce her commitment for the next season, while Leroux took a mental health leave in 2025.

Fishlock’s contributions have been pivotal to the Reign’s success, including their dominant NWSL Shield-winning seasons in 2014 and 2015, and she was named NWSL MVP in 2021. 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 noted a renewed sense of joy at the start of the 2025 season, particularly with a new generation of young players emerging and a fresh ownership structure taking shape.

“For me, it’s always been about my body,” Fishlock stated. “While my football knowledge and experience will remain, the question is whether my body can keep up with my mind. So far, it has.”

She acknowledged the Reign organization for allowing her the flexibility to manage her physical condition, crediting her longstanding relationships in Seattle.

“A one-year deal is ideal for me to continually assess my physical readiness,” Fishlock explained.

Reign head coach Laura Harvey praised Fishlock, stating, “Jess sees the game at a level that very few players do, thanks to her extensive experience. Her tactical awareness, ability to adapt, and commitment to uplifting her teammates will propel this team forward. Her leadership presence in the locker room is invaluable as we advance into 2026.”

Having recently announced her retirement from international play, Fishlock guided Wales to their first major tournament at the Women’s European Championship in 2025, where she scored the team’s first goal, becoming the oldest goalscorer in Women’s Euro history. Despite contemplating continuing her international career, she is enthusiastic about focusing entirely on her club.

Fishlock’s journey with Seattle has been marked by both triumphs—three NWSL Shields—and heartbreaks, including three losses in the NWSL Championship match. She has witnessed the team navigate relocations, updates in ownership, and branding efforts, all while seeking to solidify its connection with the fan base.

“There’s something profound about experiencing this journey with a singular club, navigating highs and lows together,” Fishlock remarked. “The deep connection we forge with our club and fans enhances both the challenges and successes we encounter.”

“Having come from Europe, where stability is more common, I never considered leaving Seattle. I have always wanted to build my entire career here due to its deep significance to me.”