Seattle Reign announced on Wednesday that they and midfielder Maddie Mercado have agreed to a one-year contract extension with a player option for 2027. In conjunction, the second-year player has been loaned to Carolina Ascent of the USL Super League for the remainder of the calendar year.
“I'm incredibly proud and grateful to represent the Reign and extend my time with this club,” said Mercado in a team release. “I'm eager for the opportunity to take this next step in my career with Carolina Ascent, continue developing my game and return ready to contribute even more to the team’s success in the future.”
Since being drafted by the Reign ahead of the 2024 season, the San Diego native has made 16 regular-season appearances, scoring one goal and adding an assist. She also scored a goal and had an assist against Club Tijuana in the NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup last season.
“We’re excited to extend Maddie Mercado’s future with the club,” said Seattle Reign FC General Manager Lesle Gallimore in a team release. “Her work ethic, positivity and love for the game inspire everyone around her. While she’ll be spending the remainder of the season with Carolina Ascent FC, this loan will give her valuable minutes and experience in a competitive environment. We look forward to her continued growth and the impact she’ll make when she returns in a Reign kit.”
Mercado becomes the third Reign player to join a USL Super League club on loan this summer, joining Olivia van der Jagt (Spokane) and Julia Lester (Sporting JAX). With Mercado’s loan, the Reign now have two open roster spots, which are expected to be used by Cassie Miller and Ryanne Brown when they are each removed from the long-term injury list. The team can open an additional spot at the end of goalkeeper Neeku Purcell’s short-term contract, or now have the option of extending her deal without further moves.
