In her final NWSL season, Fishlock becomes the second recipient of the award honoring excellence on the field, leadership in the locker room and community impact; Reign FC and Paula’s Choice to donate $10,000 to Lambert House in honor of Fishlock’s No. 10, with the longtime captain set to be recognized before the club’s Decision Day match on November 1
Seattle Reign FC today announced that captain Jess Fishlock has been named the 2026 recipient of the Lu Barnes Award, presented by Paula’s Choice Skincare, recognizing her excellence on the field, leadership in the locker room and lasting impact in the community. In her 14th and final season with the club, Fishlock becomes the second annual recipient of the award, following longtime teammate and club original Lauren Barnes, who received the inaugural honor in 2025. As part of the recognition, Reign FC and Paula’s Choice will contribute a combined $10,000 to Lambert House, a Seattle nonprofit selected by Fishlock, in honor of her No. 10 jersey and retirement.
Established in 2025 to honor Barnes’ legacy following her 13-year career with the Reign, the award is built around three pillars that defined her time in Seattle: excellence on the field, leadership in the locker room and service to the community. Throughout her career, Barnes set the standard through her consistent performances, unwavering commitment to her teammates and meaningful impact beyond the pitch. The award recognizes players who embody those same qualities, celebrating the integrity, leadership and excellence that have become synonymous with Barnes’ legacy.
“It’s an incredible honor to receive an award named after Lu, someone I was fortunate enough to share the field with for so many years,” said Fishlock. “We’ve been through so much together at this club, and I’ve seen firsthand the standard she set every single day. What makes this award so special is that it represents so much more than what you do on the pitch. It’s about how you show up for your teammates, how you lead in the locker room and the impact you make in the community. Those are things Lu has always embodied, so to be recognized with an award that carries her name, especially in my final season, means an incredible amount to me.”
One of the most influential figures in Reign FC history, Fishlock has helped shape the club’s identity since its inaugural season in 2013. As the last remaining original player on the roster, the Welsh midfielder has been a driving force behind Seattle’s success for 14 seasons, helping the club capture three NWSL Shields (2014, 2015, 2022) and reach three NWSL Championships (2014, 2015, 2023). A combined seven-time NWSL Best XI First Team and Second Team selection and the 2021 NWSL MVP, Fishlock has established herself among the league’s most accomplished players while setting the standard for competitiveness, professionalism and leadership.
Throughout the 2026 campaign, Fishlock has continued to make an impact as a co-captain, contributing both as a starter and off the bench while helping guide the club’s next generation of talent. Her influence extends beyond matchday, with her experience, work ethic and commitment to her teammates continuing to shape the culture and expectations within the locker room. Earlier this season, Fishlock also became Reign FC’s all-time leading goal scorer, adding another milestone to a career defined by sustained excellence.
“I can't think of anyone more deserving of this award than Jess,” said Lauren Barnes. “She's given everything to this club for 14 years, and even in her final season, she continues to lead by example. As a co-captain, she's been such an important voice for this team, and her impact in the community has been just as meaningful. Jess has truly embodied the pillars of this award throughout her career. She's helped build what this club is today, and the legacy she's leaving behind will continue to shape the Reign for years to come.”
Beyond her accomplishments on the field, Fishlock has remained deeply committed to making a difference throughout the Seattle community. A longtime advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion and individuals experiencing homelessness, she has used her platform to support local organizations and create meaningful connections beyond soccer. Her work with Lambert House, a Seattle organization serving LGBTQ+ youth, reflects that commitment and her longstanding dedication to creating spaces where young people feel supported, accepted and empowered.
As part of the Lu Barnes Award, Reign FC and presenting partner Paula’s Choice each traditionally contribute $2,500 to a nonprofit organization selected by the recipient. In recognition of Fishlock’s retirement and the significance of her No. 10 jersey, the organizations have increased this year’s combined contribution to $10,000, which Fishlock has directed to Lambert House.
“From the start, Paula’s Choice has been defined by results you can see and a commitment to helping people feel confident in their own skin,” said Faiz Ahmad, CEO of Paula’s Choice Skincare. “The Seattle Reign FC players embody that same standard, on the field and in the community we share. As we continue this partnership, we’re focused on going further together by backing the players, celebrating their achievements and helping move women’s sports forward from the city we both call home.”
The Lu Barnes Award, presented by Paula’s Choice Skincare, recognizes the player who best exemplifies the qualities of excellence on the pitch, leadership in the locker room and service to the community. The 2026 award was determined through a weighted voting process by Reign FC players, coaches and club staff, Season Ticket Members and fans. Fishlock was selected from three finalists, alongside defender Phoebe McClernon and goalkeeper Cassie Miller.
Fishlock will be recognized for receiving the 2026 Lu Barnes Award during a pre-match ceremony on Sunday, November 1, when Reign FC hosts the Orlando Pride at Lumen Field (2:00 p.m. PT / ESPN+) on Decision Day, the club’s final match of the regular season. The occasion also marks Fishlock’s final regular-season match in Seattle before her retirement, giving fans an opportunity to celebrate her historic career and lasting contributions to the club. Tickets are still available at ReignFC.com/Tickets.
