Seattle Reign FC made their first homegrown signing on Tuesday, announcing that former Reign Academy goalkeeper Neeku Purcell has signed a short-term contract with the club while Cassie Miller remains out with a leg injury. Concurrently, Miller has been placed on the 45-day injury list to open a roster spot and facilitate the move.
Purcell most recently played for Brooklyn FC of the USL Super League, whose season concluded last week and who received a fee from the Reign for her transfer. She made 17 appearances (16 starts) for the first-year club, recording four shutouts. Her play with Brooklyn earned her an invitation to the USWNT Futures Camp in January, alongside Reign teammates Jordyn Bugg, Emily Mason, Ainsley McCammon and Maddie Dahlien. Purcell has also featured for the United States at the U-15 through U-23 levels, including helping the U.S. win the 2022 Concacaf U-20 Championship with shutouts in the semifinal and final.
“We’re excited to welcome Neeku to the first team roster,” said Reign General Manager Lesle Gallimore in a team release. “As a product of the Seattle Reign Academy, this is a proud moment for both her and the club. Neeku has continued to develop at a high level, and this opportunity is a testament to her hard work and perseverance. With Cassie unfortunately sidelined due to injury, Neeku will provide valuable depth and energy to our goalkeeper group. We have full confidence in her ability to step in and contribute.”
Prior to starting her pro career, Purcell spent several years with the Reign Academy, where she captained her age group and had opportunities to train with the first team. She then played collegiate soccer at UCLA, where she made 27 appearances and had a 0.48 goals against average.
