An absolute legend just said her final goodbye to Lumen Field, and let me tell you, it was an emotional one. Longtime Seattle Reign midfielder Jess Fishlock, the last original member of the squad and a player who has spent her entire National Women’s Soccer League career right here in Seattle, played her last home game after an incredible 14 years with the club. But here’s the kicker: with thousands of fans watching, the Reign pulled off a crucial win, keeping their postseason dreams alive and giving Fishlock at least one more shot to take the field before she hangs up her boots.
The Emerald City Said Thank You, Jess!
You could feel the electricity at Lumen Field, a true mix of celebration for a player synonymous with the Reign and the sheer urgency of a must-win game. Fishlock herself called it “a very special moment and one that I will remember for a long time.” And you know what? We will too. Reign fan Matt Whilden nailed it, saying, “Every time she’s on the field, you know, you got a chance to win.” It’s true, isn’t it? Her impact goes way beyond the stats. Another fan spoke for so many of us, pointing out that Fishlock brings “bigger visibility to women’s sports, in general.” This isn’t just about Seattle, either. Rhys Dorrian, a fan all the way from Wales, even showed up with a Welsh flag hoping to get it signed, saying, “I’m Welsh, and it’s really great we’ve got Welsh players in Seattle.” That’s the kind of global reach our Reign legend has!
A Bittersweet Farewell With Plenty Still on the Line
It wasn’t just the fans who showed up to honor Fishlock. Former Reign star, our very own Megan Rapinoe, was in the house to see her longtime teammate’s final home game. Rapinoe put it perfectly, telling us all, “There is no Seattle Reign without this bright person.” You felt that in your bones, right? Fishlock admitted that leaving the club and its incredible supporters is going to be bittersweet. She said, “The only sad thing about my retirement is that I don’t get more time with them.” But don’t you dare think her career is over just yet. The Reign’s season is still very much alive, and Fishlock is locked in, focused on getting another opportunity to play. “To play one more game is just my main emotion,” she declared. After the final whistle, she stayed on the field, addressing the fans who stuck around for her farewell, a simple but heartfelt “Thank you so much.”
So, while we’re wiping away a few tears from that incredible send-off, the fight continues for our Reign! They picked up that crucial win, and now it’s all about that next game. Fishlock and the team are still pushing, still fighting for every single moment. Let’s go, Reign!
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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