Defender Lauren “Lu” Barnes and the Seattle Reign agreed Tuesday on a one-year contract for her thirteenth season with the membership.
Barnes, 35, was a free agent after her two-year contract extension with Seattle expired following the 2024 season.
She is the NWSL’s all-time chief in video games performed (232), video games began (224) and minutes performed (19,795). Barnes and teammate Jess Fishlock are the one energetic NWSL gamers to play for a similar membership yearly for the reason that league’s inaugural season in 2013.
“I am thrilled to signal a brand new contract with the Reign, a spot that has been my residence since I first joined the membership in 2013,” stated Barnes, who was the tenth general choose within the league’s supplemental draft on Feb. 7, 2013.
“This membership means a lot to me — not only for what we have achieved on the sphere however for the impression we have been capable of make locally,” Barnes continued. “I am proud to proceed this journey with my teammates, our unbelievable followers and town I really like. Collectively, we’re constructing one thing particular, and I am excited for what’s forward.”
The crew captain is a three-time NWSL Defend winner (2014, 2015, 2022) and was the 2016 NWSL Defender of the 12 months. Barnes was voted to the NWSL Greatest XI first crew in 2015 and 2016, and second crew in 2014 and 2019.
Barnes made 21 appearances with 17 begins in 2024, and she or he has performed in 232 of the membership’s 252 regular-season matches since 2013.
“We’re completely thrilled to welcome Lu Barnes again to the Reign this season,” normal supervisor Lesle Gallimore stated. “From the very starting, Lu has been the guts and soul of this membership, and her legacy right here is unparalleled. As a world-class defender and chief within the NWSL, her affect extends far past the sphere. We’re excited to see the immense impression she’s going to proceed to have on our crew and the Reign neighborhood this season.”
–Discipline Stage Media