From the Desk of the General Manager
Season 3 Reflections & The Power of Connection
As I begin my third season as General Manager of Seattle Reign FC, I’ve been reflecting on the journey that brought me to this point—from my long tenure as Head Women’s Soccer Coach at the University of Washington, to the transitional years that led me to this club I now call home.
In that time, I had the honor of supporting Amy Griffin and eight other Academy Directors and leaders from across the country as they came together to build the Girls Academy following the dissolution of the U.S. Soccer Development Academy in April 2020. Serving as Commissioner of the Girls Academy was a transformative experience. It prepared me well for the job I hold today—one where managing the people who guide, and support players is central to everything we do.
Now, our club is on the rise. We’ve elevated our First Team staffing, we’re assembling the kind of world-class roster this city deserves, and we’re laser-focused on our Path to Pro—laying the foundation for our youngest Reign Drops to dream of one day becoming the next Jess Fishlock or Jordyn Bugg.
Coach Doug spoke beautifully in our last newsletter about *connection*. He’s right—soccer, fútbol, football—the world’s game—is about connection. It's about the bonds we build within our teams, between the Academy and the First Team, and with all of you—the supporters, families, and fans—who walk alongside our players as they grow, improve, and fall in love with this sport for life.
This season, as I walk through the stands at Lumen handing out “connection bracelets,” I invite you to say hello. I love hearing about your experience at our matches—who your favorite players are, which teams you’re excited to see us play, and how you like to celebrate a big goal or a hard-earned win.
We’re turning the page for a city built by Queens—and we’re welcoming new Queens, young and old, to be part of the excitement surrounding Seattle Reign FC.
See you at the pitch and Let It Reign!
Lesle Gallimore
General Manager
