Megan Rapinoe joined the Seattle Reign before the inaugural NWSL season in 2013, and despite her initial displeasure, she quickly felt at home with the team. As she prepares for her final regular season home game with the team, now called the OL Reign, Rapinoe reflects on her time with the club, stating that it immediately felt like where she wanted to be. She credits the team for helping her grow and challenges herself both on and off the field. The Reign have achieved many successes over the years, including winning the NWSL Shield, but they are still chasing the NWSL championship. The upcoming game will celebrate Rapinoe’s career and serve as an important step towards securing a postseason berth and potentially winning the league title.
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Rapinoe’s time with the Reign has been about more than just on-field success. She emphasizes the importance of using sports as a platform to affect change and address social issues. As an advocate for women’s sports, she has been outspoken about the need for improvements and the necessity of challenging oneself to be better. Rapinoe also acknowledges the growth of the NWSL and women’s sports in general, noting the progress made in terms of conditions, recognition, and investment. She believes that her generation of players has achieved success both on and off the field, making a positive impact and seeing the world becoming a better place.
Reign head coach Laura Harvey praises Rapinoe for her leadership and influence, stating that she has been instrumental in driving change within the club and the league. Harvey credits Rapinoe for not shying away from advocating for improvements in facilities, resources, and overall conditions for players. In turn, Rapinoe recognizes the impact she has had on Harvey’s growth as a coach and as a person, providing her with the platform to be her authentic self.
Seattle holds a special place in Rapinoe’s heart, as it became an unexpected home for her. The city is where she met her fiancée, retired WNBA legend Sue Bird, and they plan to continue living there even after Rapinoe’s retirement. Saying goodbye to the Reign feels different and more emotional for her compared to previous farewells, as she is not only bidding farewell to her team and coach but also to players she has played with for a long time. Despite her emotions, Rapinoe is determined to give her best in the upcoming game and cherish the moments.
