Seattle Reign FC Honors Megan Rapinoe with Jersey Retirement and Victory over North Carolina Courage in National Women’s Soccer League

In a monumental event that combined celebration, nostalgia, and an exhilarating soccer match, Seattle Reign FC retired Megan Rapinoe’s iconic No. 15 jersey. The ceremony took place during a thrilling 1-0 victory over North Carolina Courage in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). This match not only marked a significant milestone in Rapinoe’s illustrious career but also showcased the deep connection between the player, her team, and the fans who have supported her throughout her journey.

The evening was filled with emotions as Seattle Reign FC orchestrated a memorable celebration for Rapinoe. The game itself was a nail-biter, with the Reign finally breaking through in stoppage time. A header secured the win, sending the crowd into a frenzy. This victory was made even more special by 18-year-old Emeri Adames, who celebrated the goal by imitating Rapinoe’s iconic victory pose from the 2019 Women’s World Cup. The young player’s tribute was a poignant reminder of Rapinoe’s lasting impact on the sport and the next generation of athletes.

Megan Rapinoe’s entire NWSL career was spent with Seattle Reign FC, making the jersey retirement ceremony all the more significant. Joining the team in the league’s inaugural season in 2013, Rapinoe played in 115 regular-season games and scored 51 goals. Her contributions to the team were immense, both on and off the field. The decision to retire her jersey, the first in the club’s history, was a fitting tribute to her dedication and achievements. The ceremony was an emotional moment for Rapinoe, who expressed immense gratitude for the support from her team and fans.

The club went above and beyond in organizing the weekend’s events, ensuring that every detail was perfect. Fans displayed a massive banner featuring Rapinoe’s image, and the Space Needle in Seattle was lit up in lavender, a nod to her distinctive hair color during the 2019 World Cup. The atmosphere was electric, with fans showing up in droves to honor their beloved player. The support from the community was overwhelming, reflecting the profound impact Rapinoe has had on the city and the sport.

The pre-match ceremony was a spectacle in itself, featuring a fan-involved visual display, a surprise guest speaker, and appearances by Reign alumni and past Starbucks legends. The highlight pro skydiving team added to the excitement by flying into Lumen Field with a Rise flag and streamers. Members of the historical 1985 U.S. Women’s National Team raised a flag to countdown the celebration, further emphasizing the significance of the occasion. A permanent LED display was unveiled as a tribute to Rapinoe’s jersey retirement, ensuring that her legacy will be remembered for years to come.

Fans were treated to a host of activities before the match, including live music, food trucks, and a Megan Rapinoe-inspired photo station hosted by Togethxr. The first 10,000 fans received a reversible Rise-branded bucket hat, adding to the festive atmosphere. Limited-edition Rise merchandise was available for purchase, allowing fans to take home a piece of the historic event. The Residency performed the national anthem before kickoff, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening.

Halftime featured a performance by the Brittany Davis Band and a special check presentation from the Rave Foundation and the Looking Out Foundation. The Space Needle, MoPOP, the 520 bridge, and Lumen Field were all lit up in purple to honor the club and Rapinoe’s contributions. The partnership between the Rave Foundation and the Looking Out Foundation was announced during the match, highlighting efforts to affirm LGBTQ+ rights, increase access to soccer, and promote women and gender diversity.

Reign FC’s partners, including Microsoft, Rad Power Bikes, and Umpqua Bank, made attending the match accessible for community groups. Rad Power Bikes offered fans the chance to win free tickets by testing their products in the test ride zone. The ongoing game entertainment included the return of Olympians, new signings, and a tribute to Rapinoe’s jersey retirement. The entire weekend was a celebration of Rapinoe’s legacy and her impact on the game.

Rapinoe’s contribution and impact on the game were acknowledged by her former teammates and coaches during the ceremony. Her successful career and achievements as a player have inspired many young girls in the game of soccer. The jersey retirement ceremony was a way of recognizing Rapinoe’s dedication and commitment to her team and the sport of soccer. Her iconic victory pose from the 2019 World Cup has become a symbol of empowerment and a source of motivation for many.

The support and love shown by fans in a sea of lavender jerseys were a testament to Rapinoe’s impact and influence on the game of soccer. Her retired jersey is a symbol of her dedication and hard work as a player and a reminder of her impact on the sport. Seattle Reign’s decision to retire Rapinoe’s jersey honors not just her as a player, but also the values she stands for and represents. Her presence and dedication to the team will be missed, but her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players.

Seattle Reign FC’s victory against North Carolina Courage was a fitting way to honor Rapinoe’s jersey retirement. The match encapsulated the spirit of competition and camaraderie that Rapinoe has always embodied. As the final whistle blew, the celebrations continued, with fans and players alike reveling in the moment. Rapinoe’s performance and contributions to Seattle Reign have cemented her as one of the greatest players in the team’s history. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and motivate players and fans for years to come.

The entire weekend was a celebration of Rapinoe’s legacy and her impact on the game. From the pre-match festivities to the emotional jersey retirement ceremony and the thrilling victory over North Carolina Courage, every moment was a testament to Rapinoe’s influence and contributions to soccer. As the lights dimmed and the fans slowly made their way out of the stadium, the sense of gratitude and admiration for Rapinoe was palpable. Her journey with Seattle Reign FC may have come to an end, but her legacy will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of fans and players alike.