OL Reign Legends: Denise and Rachael Rapinoe

The Legends Campaign, a partnership between OL Reign and Starbucks, honors women for their extraordinary contributions to our community in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Prior to OL Reign’s final regular season home match against the Washington Spirit, OL Reign recognized Denise and Rachael Rapinoe. 

These two incredibly special Legends are two of Megan’s biggest supporters and have been beside her throughout her entire career. As two cultivators of community and family, Denise and Rachael are looking forward to supporting Megan in her next chapter and are incredibly proud of the illustrious career she has forged for herself, on and off the pitch, as an athlete and activist.  

Alongside being Megan’s biggest supporters and cheering her on for decades, Denise and Rachael are equally impressive, having built inspiring lives and careers of their own. 

Denise, applauded as an extraordinarily hard worker, has recently retired from her job at Jack’s Bar & Grill, a place she had the pleasure of working at for 36 years, truly working to make it a family-like environment. Outside of work, she’s known for her unflinching ability to welcome others in and cultivate a sense of family anywhere.  

“There’s no question that my greatest accomplishment is my marriage to the love of my life, my children and my grandchildren. Nothing could possibly represent me and what’s most important to me better than my family.” said Denise. 

As a mother, Denise offered some advice to young women who may be pursuing a goal or career in their own life. 

“I’ve seen over and over again in my own life as well as my children’s lives that it’s so important to embrace your goals. Really hang on to them,” she encouraged. “It’s okay if these goals change, because you’re always changing, but don’t let anybody steal that goal from you. If you persevere and don’t simply accept no as an answer, you’ll likely achieve the goals you set for yourself and much, much more.” 

Much like her mom, Rachael is known as a hard worker and a true cultivator of community, in addition to the zest she carries for life, each and every day.  With no intention of living in complacency, Rachael is a fierce advocate for marginalized groups. She boasts an impressive resume of accomplishments as an athlete, CEO, entrepreneur, wellness advocate and difference-maker.  

"For me, I would say that my greatest accomplishment is staying true to who I am,” said Rachael. “I was always told that I walk to the beat of my own drum, but I never let that stop me. As I get older, I am really proud to reflect back on the life that I’ve built and see that it truly reflects who I am as a person and my core values.” 

Rachael’s advice to young women is very similar – She encourages them to stay true to who they are, even if others discourage them. 

“Stay true to your North Star, especially in a world that was built for women and minorities to not succeed. The systems may be countering everything you’re doing, but please take up space and be unique. Make some noise and ruffle some feathers because the status quo doesn’t work for us.” 

For Denise and Rachael, being honored as OL Reign and Starbucks Legends is truly humbling. As two people that have been with the Reign for over a decade, it means a lot to them. 

“This is all so humbling,” Denise said. “I’ve always loved the Reign. Megan has been here such a long time and we’ve always enjoyed our trips up. The whole organization, from the owners we’ve met and had relationships with to the staff, coaches and teammates, has an amazing culture. I love that this Legends program is something the team does. I’ve always thought that it was amazing, and the women honored are amazing, so it’s very humbling for me.” 

Rachael echoed her mom’s sentiment whole-heartedly. “You know, I live in Portland we love our Thorns down there, but ever since Megan got drafted to the Reign, I’ve truly been a Reign fan. I love the organization and I'm so grateful for everything that they've done for Megan and so many players and will continue to do. This has been a really special experience for us and it's an honor to be recognized by you guys and Starbucks. Our family is honored that the love is not only been extended to Megan, but to us as well.” 

As Megan’s career is coming to a close, Denise is looking forward to getting to spend more time with her, especially as they will both be entering a new chapter at the same time. 

“I get to plug in with Rachel a lot more throughout the year, but with soccer, Megan has always been tougher. I'm looking forward to planning some trips together or even just more visits. I'm just really looking forward to this next chapter,” said Denise. 

Before concluding, Rachael had one call to action for the City of Seattle. 

“Keep showing up for your team,” she urged. “We’re in a really exciting moment right now with women’s sports. It’s taken a lot of time and work to get here. Players like Megan have definitely been a pivotal part of shouldering that effort, but now it’s up to you to keep showing up. Whether it’s through ticket sales, tuning in on television or local sponsors – show every ounce of support that you can for that organization. Even after Megan retires, all of the fans need to keep showing up and showing their support.”