Jess Fishlock to Retire After 14 Seasons with Seattle Reign

Seattle Reign FC midfielder Jess Fishlock has announced that the upcoming 2026 NWSL season will mark her final chapter in professional soccer. Fishlock, who has dedicated 14 seasons to the Reign since the league’s inception in 2013, is one of only three remaining players from that inaugural season, alongside Alyssa Naeher and Sydney Leroux. However, she is the only one to have spent her entire career with a single team.

Key Highlights

• Fishlock has been a pivotal player for Seattle, leading the team through numerous victories.
• She won the NWSL MVP award in 2021 and has been named to the NWSL’s Best XI five times.
• Fishlock aims to help the Reign secure their first NWSL Championship before her retirement.
• As she prepares to step away, Fishlock is focused on the next chapter of her life, including coaching aspirations.

Fishlock’s journey in the NWSL is a remarkable one. Reflecting on her early days, she recalls her first match in an amateur venue outside Chicago, where head coach Laura Harvey reassured her after a shaky start. “There were moments I thought about quitting, but I love this league. I genuinely believe it’s the best in the world,” she shared in an interview. Fishlock expressed gratitude for the competition that has pushed her to elevate her game.

Throughout her storied career, she has played a crucial role in the Reign’s success, contributing to three NWSL Shield victories, including a particularly dominant season in 2014. “Jess is not just a fantastic player but a remarkable person,” stated Harvey. “Her work ethic and football intelligence have been invaluable to this club. She has carried us at times, and her impact on Seattle and women’s soccer is immeasurable.”

Fishlock’s international career with Wales also came to a close last year, after nearly two decades representing her country. Despite considering retirement earlier, she chose to play one last season with Seattle, drawn in by the joy of mentoring younger players. “I wanted to be part of this young group because they bring me happiness,” she said.

As she looks ahead, Fishlock is exploring opportunities in women’s sports. With her UEFA A coaching license and ongoing studies for her master’s in sports leadership, she is eager to contribute to the game in new ways. “The NWSL has come a long way. I want young players to appreciate how far we’ve come from those early days,” she remarked.

Fishlock’s retirement announcement comes ahead of the regular season’s conclusion on November 1. “I’ve got the whole season to focus on winning a championship. Regardless of the outcome, I’m at peace, leaning into the journey rather than fixating on the results,” she said. With fond memories flooding back, Fishlock is determined to make her final season count.

As the curtain falls on her playing career, Jess Fishlock leaves behind a legacy of excellence and dedication. Her contributions to Seattle Reign and the NWSL will not soon be forgotten.

FAQs

• When did Jess Fishlock start her career with Seattle Reign?
  Fishlock began her career with the Seattle Reign in 2013, during the NWSL’s inaugural season.
• How many NWSL Shields has Fishlock helped the Reign win?
  She has contributed to three NWSL Shield victories.
• What awards has Fishlock received during her career?
  Fishlock won the NWSL MVP award in 2021 and has been named to the Best XI five times.
• What are Fishlock’s plans after retirement?
  She plans to stay involved in women’s sports, focusing on coaching and leadership roles.

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