| | A Message from Seattle Reign Academy Exexutive Director, Amy Griffin
As we head into April, this is a time of transition for many of our players and families. With new team formations ahead and an age group shift this year, it’s natural for things to feel a little uncertain. New coaches, new teammates, new environments—these moments can bring both excitement and stress. In times like this, what matters most is belief.
Belief in yourself, in the plan, and in your ability to contribute to the process. This is what builds confidence—it’s the space where we grow. Belief that you are on the right path, even if things aren’t as clear as you’d like them to be. Growth rarely happens in complete comfort. It comes when we step into something new, when we’re challenged, and when we embrace the process wholeheartedly—even if we don’t have all the answers yet. And just as importantly, it comes from the people around us. To hear “I believe in you. I believe in this plan,” makes all the difference. That belief builds confidence. It creates resilience. It allows players and coaches to maximize opportunities, make mistakes, and continue moving forward. It creates a space where we can all work toward something we collectively believe can be great.
The mindset we choose matters more than we think. If we begin with, “I’m excited about this plan and believe it to be good,” it becomes far more likely that things will work out. But if we begin with, “I don’t like this. I don’t think this will work. I’m nervous about this,” then the journey starts on uncertain footing, and it becomes much harder to move forward with confidence. We begin at a lower point than we need to, making the climb feel more daunting. Nothing is perfect. But if you put your mental energy into believing something is a good plan, the foundation becomes sturdy—and from there, you can add whatever effort it takes to make it closer to perfect for you. If you want to build a deeper relationship with your coach, reach out and create that connection. If you want to finish a higher percentage of goal-scoring opportunities, develop a plan outside of training and work with your coach and teammates to make it happen. You get the idea. 😊
At Seattle Reign Academy, we strive to be that environment—for our players, coaches, and families. A place where support is constant, encouragement is essential, and players feel seen and valued during times of change. That doesn’t mean everything is always smooth. There will be moments that feel challenging or unclear. There are times when coaches miss the mark, or players fall below expectations. When that happens, the best path forward is to step back, understand the intention, and work together toward a resolution that strengthens us as a club.
Let’s continue to show up for one another in the weeks ahead. Because when we believe—in ourselves and in each other—we give ourselves the best chance to grow. We all have the ability to create unity and alignment. Staying true to our Core Values—Respect, Energy+, Integrity, and a Growth Mindset—allows us to embrace the never-ending process. It’s easy when everything is smooth. Real growth happens when things are a little uncomfortable. That’s where the good stuff is… when we choose to believe it.
“The only way to discover the talents that you have within you is to give yourself permission to be a beginner.”
-Amy Griffin
Seattle Reign Academy Executive Director 
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| April brings a full slate of Girls Academy action to the Providence Swedish Performance Center, as all six of our GA squads take the field across three consecutive weekends of conference play.
We open the month on April 18 with a full club matchup against Seattle Celtic. From our U13s kicking things off in the morning to our U19s closing out the day, it’s an exciting opportunity for every age group to compete in a full-day showcase of Reign Academy soccer.
The following weekend, we continue at home with another complete set of fixtures on April 25 against Washington East Surf SC. With every team in action once again, the day provides a great test across all age groups as we push deeper into the spring season.
The weekend wraps up on April 26 as we host Spokane Shadow, again at Providence Swedish Performance Center. With quick turnarounds and back-to-back competition, this stretch will challenge our players’ resilience, consistency, and ability to perform under pressure.
Across all three matchdays, every GA team—from U13 through U19—will compete at home, creating a high-energy environment and a great opportunity for our community to come out and support.
We’re excited to see our players continue to grow, compete, and represent the club throughout a busy and important month of GA play. |
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Our GA Aspire squads are set for a full weekend of competition as they take the field on April 25–26 at North SeaTac Park, facing off against Washington East Surf SC across all age groups.
The action begins on Saturday, April 25, with all six Aspire teams in play. From our 10G and 13G squads kicking off the day, to the 09G and 11G teams closing things out in the afternoon, it’s a full day of matchups that will showcase the depth and development across our Aspire pathway.
Competition continues on Sunday, April 26, as each team returns to face Washington East Surf’s CB squads. With quick turnarounds and a second set of games, the weekend presents a great opportunity for players to apply lessons in real time, adapt, and continue building confidence in a competitive environment.
With every Aspire team in action across both days, this weekend is an important step in the ongoing development of our players. These matches reflect the growth, commitment, and progress being made throughout the pathway—and provide another opportunity to compete, connect, and represent the club.
We’re excited to see our Aspire players continue to take on new challenges and make the most of a big weekend of games. |
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| | | COLLEGE COMMITMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS |
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Adri Torres heads into her collegiate career at Pomona-Pitzer as a player defined by resilience, intensity, and a genuine love for competition. She thrives in difficult moments, consistently bringing energy that lifts those around her while also serving as a dangerous attacking presence capable of changing games.
Coach Aubrey Buehler highlighted her impact, saying, “Adri’s resilience and persistence on the field make her stand out — she never backs down from a challenge and finds a way to keep pushing when others might fade. As a competitor, she brings an intensity that elevates everyone around her, and as an attacking threat, she can change the game in an instant. What truly makes Adri special, though, is her love for the game. You can see it in every sprint, every challenge, every moment she steps on the pitch. That fire is something you simply cannot coach, and it is exactly the kind of energy any program is looking for. We are excited to see how she continues to grow both as a player and as a person at Pomona-Pitzer.” |
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Alex Anderson-Smith’s commitment to MIT reflects a player who consistently elevates every environment she enters. Her reliability, discipline, and competitive edge have made her a cornerstone of her team, bringing the same level of intensity to every training session and match.
As Pre-Academy Director Aubrey Buehler shared, “Alex is exactly the kind of player who makes a program better the moment she walks in the door. Her consistency and dedication to her craft have been key to her success — she brings the same work ethic and intensity to every training session and every match. Soccer IQ is what sets her apart — she reads the game well and consistently executes the right play when it matters most. With this amount of composure, whether the game is on the line or the moment is big, she remains calm, focused, and in control. MIT is gaining not just a talented player but a true competitor who will leave a lasting impression. We couldn’t be prouder of Alex and are excited to see everything she accomplishes at the next level.” |
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| Lilah Pruner’s game is built on intelligence, creativity, and a consistent drive to improve. She impacts matches not just through technical ability, but through her decision-making—always finding the right moment, the right pass, or the right run to unlock play.
As described by Aubrey Buehler, “Lilah is exactly the kind of player and person who elevates every environment she enters. Her on-field intelligence makes her impactful in every moment of the game — consistently choosing the right pass, the right run, the right moment to act. That mental sharpness is matched only by her dedication; Lilah’s work ethic and commitment to improvement are evident in everything she does, day in and day out. In addition, she approaches the game with a flair and imagination that keeps defenders guessing. With the ball at her feet, she is inventive and unpredictable — a nightmare to contain and a joy to watch. Pomona-Pitzer has acquired not just a talented athlete but a driven and thoughtful competitor. We can’t wait to see everything she accomplishes in the collegiate game.” |
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Aubrey Carleson’s game is defined by creativity, energy, and an aggressive competitive mindset. She consistently finds ways to break down defenders and create opportunities, using her technical ability and flair to influence the game in decisive moments.
In the words of Aubrey Buehler, “Aubrey is a dynamic force who brings energy and creativity to every moment of the game. With her elusive ability on the ball, defenders simply struggle to contain her — she has a rare gift for creating space where none seems to exist. Above all else, her fierce competitive spirit is what makes her stand out. She plays every minute like something is on the line, and that intensity is contagious. Upper Iowa University is gaining a player who will leave her mark on their program — we cannot wait to watch her thrive.” |
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| Hannah Hutchings brings a complete defensive presence to the next level, combining toughness, composure, and intelligence in a way that makes her a reliable anchor at the back. Her ability to read the game, stay composed under pressure, and contribute in both defensive and attacking phases sets her apart.
Aubrey Buehler noted, “Hannah has been an incredible addition to our 07/08 GA squad and the Reign Academy community — brave in every challenge, physically strong, and relentlessly determined to push herself and those around her. As a stout defender, she brings toughness and reliability at the back that her team can always count on. Her technical skill on the ball and composure in tight moments make her a genuine threat in the attack. The intelligence she brings to the game allows her to read situations before they develop and make decisions that reflect the maturity of a player moving on to the next level. Pomona-Pitzer is gaining a competitor with the heart, mind, and toughness to thrive in the collegiate game.” |
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| | Reign Academy Players Shine at IberCup Portugal |
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This spring, two of our Girls Academy players took the global stage—and came home as champions.
Eliana Rehder (U15 GA) and Carter Richardson (U14 GA) represented the Washington EPD program at the IberCup in Portugal, competing against top talent from around the world. The group put together an outstanding run, ultimately capturing the Silver Bracket Championship.
IberCup is one of the premier international youth tournaments in the game, bringing together teams from dozens of countries to compete in a high-level, professionally organized environment. For players, it’s an opportunity not only to test themselves against international competition, but also to experience different styles of play, cultures, and the demands of performing on a global stage.
For Eliana and Carter, this experience reflects both their individual growth and their ability to step into a new environment and make an impact. Competing abroad requires adaptability, resilience, and confidence—qualities they demonstrated throughout the tournament.
We’re proud to see our players representing the club at the international level and embracing opportunities that push their development beyond the everyday environment. Congratulations to Eliana, Carter, and the Washington EPD group on an incredible achievement in Portugal. |
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| SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION OPEN |
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| We’re excited to announce that registration for Seattle Reign Academy’s 2026 youth soccer camps is officially open! These camps provide an incredible opportunity for players ages 6–14 to grow their skills, build confidence, and have fun in a high‑energy, supportive environment grounded in Seattle Reign’s core values and curriculum.
Across two summer sessions — Week #1 (July 27–30) and Week #2 (August 10–13) — campers can choose between full‑day (9:30 AM – 3:30 PM) or half‑day (9:30 AM – 12:30 PM) options hosted at the Providence Swedish Performance Center at the Sounders Training Facility. All players ages 6–14 are welcome to attend, and players under 9 are encouraged to choose the half‑day option.
These camps are designed to help players improve technical skills, increase tactical understanding, and enjoy meaningful game‑like experiences — all led by knowledgeable coaches with a low player‑to‑coach ratio and an athletic trainer on site. Participants will also receive a Seattle Reign T‑shirt and a full‑camp experience focused on fun and growth.
Early registration pays off! Register before March 1st to save on tuition, and discounts are available for current Reign Academy players and Kids Club members (contact info@reignacademy.com for details). Don’t miss out — bring your passion for the game and join us on the field this summer! |
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| | | Spring ID Sessions/Tryouts Registration Is Open! |
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| Registration for our Spring ID Sessions/Tryouts is now open for players interested in joining Seattle Reign Academy! Our tryout process is designed with flexibility and depth in mind — most age groups have four sessions to choose from, giving players multiple opportunities to showcase their skills and fit within our training environment.
Players who are interested in joining the Seattle Reign Academy are encouraged to attend at least two sessions, though attending more gives coaches a fuller picture of their technical, tactical, and socio‑emotional strengths. With rolling evaluations and ongoing communication throughout the tryout period, earlier sessions are especially valuable.
Sessions begin April 19 and run through May 10, with age‑group‑specific dates and times at the Providence Swedish Performance Center & Clubhouse and North SeaTac Park. Each session is $25, and players will register for the group that matches their age category. If you know anyone who is interested in joining our Academy family, please spread the word!
PLEASE NOTE: Current Seattle Reign Academy players should not attend. These sessions are for players who are interested in joining the Academy only.
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