Seattle Reign FC today announced that captain Jess Fishlock will retire at the end of the 2026 NWSL season, concluding one of the most iconic careers in club and league history. Fishlock, the last remaining club original from the inaugural 2013 squad, has helped define Reign FC's identity for more than a decade. Her legendary career will be celebrated during the club's second annual Queen's Match on Friday, October 2 (7:00 p.m. PT / Victory+), with her final regular season home match set for Sunday, November 1 on Decision Day. Reign FC returns to Lumen Field this Sunday, April 26 against Utah Royals FC (5:00 p.m. PT / Victory+, 950 KJR AM), marking its first match at the venue this season. “It’s hard to put into words what Seattle and this club mean to me,” said Fishlock. “This is where I’ve grown, where I’ve fought, where I’ve experienced some of the best moments of my career. We’ve built something that goes far beyond football, and I’m so proud to have been a part of it from day one. I’ll never take for granted the people, the fans and the city that have supported me through it all, and I’m going to give everything I have in this final season.” A transformational figure in women’s soccer, Fishlock’s impact spans generations and continents, but her legacy is most deeply rooted in Seattle. Now 13 years to the day of her first goal for the club on April 21, 2013, she is in her final season as one of the most decorated and consistent players in NWSL history, with the second-most appearances in club and league history (219). Fishlock also ranks second in club history and third in league history in starts (205) and minutes played (17,785). Fishlock’s influence in the attack has been equally historic. She has recorded 49 goals (second-most in club history, tied for ninth-most in league history) and 30 assists (most in club history, fifth-most in league history), totaling 79 goal contributions – the most in Reign FC history. Last season, the 39-year-old finished tied for the team lead in goals, earning Reign FC’s Golden Boot honors. She also joins former teammate Lauren Barnes as one of just two players in NWSL history to reach 100 regular season wins. Across her career, Fishlock has helped lead Seattle to three NWSL Shields (2014, 2015, 2022) and three appearances in the NWSL Championship (2014, 2015, 2023), while earning 2021 NWSL MVP honors. Her excellence has been recognized with seven NWSL Best XI selections, the most in club history and second-most in league history. “Jess represents everything this club stands for,” said Seattle Reign FC General Manager Lesle Gallimore. “Her loyalty, her passion and her relentless drive have helped shape Reign FC into what it is today. She’s not only one of the best players in NWSL history, but one of the most influential figures our game has seen. We are incredibly grateful for everything she has given to this club and this community.” Beyond her club success, Fishlock leaves an unmatched legacy on the international stage, having represented Wales in numerous tournaments, including the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
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Seattle Reign FC Captain Jess Fishlock to Retire at End of 2026 NWSL Season
Seattle Reign FC captain Jess Fishlock to retire at the end of the 2026 NWSL season, concluding one of the most iconic careers in club and league history.
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