Veteran defender Lu Barnes returning to Reign

Defender Lauren "Lu" Barnes and the Seattle Reign agreed Tuesday on a one-year contract for her 13th season with the club.

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 leader in games played (232), games started (224) and minutes played (19,795). Barnes and teammate Jess Fishlock are the only active NWSL players to play for the same club every year since the league's inaugural season in 2013.

"I'm thrilled to sign a new contract with the Reign, a place that has been my home since I first joined the club in 2013," said Barnes, who was the 10th overall pick in the league's supplemental draft on Feb. 7, 2013.

"This club means so much to me -- not just for what we've accomplished on the field but for the impact we've been able to make in the community," Barnes continued. "I'm proud to continue this journey with my teammates, our incredible fans and the city I love. Together, we're building something special, and I'm excited for what's ahead."

The team captain is a three-time NWSL Shield winner (2014, 2015, 2022) and was the 2016 NWSL Defender of the Year. Barnes was voted to the NWSL Best XI first team in 2015 and 2016, and second team in 2014 and 2019.

Barnes made 21 appearances with 17 starts in 2024, and she has played in 232 of the club's 252 regular-season matches since 2013.

"We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Lu Barnes back to the Reign this season," general manager Lesle Gallimore said. "From the very beginning, Lu has been the heart and soul of this club, and her legacy here is unparalleled. As a world-class defender and leader in the NWSL, her influence extends far beyond the field. We are excited to see the immense impact she will continue to have on our team and the Reign community this season."

--Field Level Media