Jess Fishlock, our very own Seattle Reign midfield maestro, just made history! The Welsh Sports Hall of Fame broke its own rules to induct her, an honor usually reserved for *after* retirement. This isn’t just any induction, folks; they’re hailing the 39-year-old as the country’s “best ever footballer” as she gears up for her final club matches.
The Reign Legend They Couldn’t Wait For
Seriously, how cool is this? The Hall of Fame usually waits for athletes to hang up their boots, but they made a special exception for Fishlock. Think about it: the only other athlete to get that kind of special dispensation was undefeated boxing icon Joe Calzaghe. That’s the caliber of legend we’re talking about here in the Emerald City! Jess already stepped away from international play last year, but not before she broke every record, tallying an incredible 166 caps and 48 goals for Wales, including their first ever major finals appearance at Euro 2025. Laura McAllister, former Wales international and current Uefa Vice-President, put it perfectly, saying, “There are not enough superlatives to describe Jess. She has won titles wherever she has gone. She is a role model. She is our best ever footballer.” No lies detected.
Last Dance for Our Superstar
This Hall of Fame induction comes as Jess is winding down her incredible 25-year club career. We’re talking just two more regular season Seattle Reign games and up to three NWSL play-off matches before she hangs up her club cleats. Can you believe it? Twenty-five years of pure grit and brilliance. She couldn’t be there in person to collect the award in Cardiff, but she sent a video message, calling the honor “huge.” For her, though, the best achievement of her glittering career was always “doing something with your people,” like reaching Euro 2025. But don’t think she’s gone for good! Fishlock is already set to join Rhian Wilkinson’s coaching staff for next month’s play-offs with Norway as Wales tries to reach their first ever women’s World Cup. She’s hyped, saying they’re “tough but winnable games.” We know Jess will do whatever she can to support “Rhian and the girls” to make that dream happen.
More Welsh Greats Honored
While our focus is rightfully on Fishlock, the gala also celebrated other Welsh legends. Chris Coleman, the manager who led Wales to that historic Euro 2016 semi-final run, was inducted, earning praise for “bringing the nation together.” They also honored former Swansea City forward Alan Curtis, ex-Burnley winger Brian Flynn, and members of the 1976 national side: goalkeeper Dai Davies, winger Leighton James, and full-back Joey Jones. Jones’ award was collected by his visibly emotional friend, Mickey Thomas, who was also honored for his 51-cap career.
So, Seattle, the clock is ticking for our chance to see Jess Fishlock on the pitch in a Reign jersey. With just two regular season games left and the NWSL playoffs right around the corner, every single match from here on out is a must-watch. Let’s make sure the Emerald City is absolutely roaring for her final club run. Let’s send our “best ever footballer” off right! What a legend.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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