It's a time for celebration in Seattle as soccer icon Megan Rapinoe has her jersey officially retired by Reign FC – a ceremony indicative of her impact both on and off the field. Slated for Sunday, August 25, at Lumen Field, the team encourages fans to show up early for a spectacle commemorating Rapinoe's career and advocacy work.
Attendees can expect to thoroughly enjoy the pre-match festivities, starting with skydiving demonstrations and culminating in a ceremony set to feature a range of high-profile guests. The Seattle Times describes the skydiving team, The Highlight Pro Skydiving Team, as an all-women group dedicating their performance to women's rights initiatives and Rapinoe's illustrious career. Meanwhile, several members of the historic 1985 U.S. Women's National Team are to make sure to receive a special nod during the events.
Loyal fans and soccer enthusiasts will not only witness Rapinoe's celebratory moments but also have the opportunity to engage in a myriad of activities and performances. According to Reign FC's announcement, the day will include live music, food trucks, a dedicated photo station by TOGETHXR, and a broad selection of limited-edition merchandise.
And, to further mark this occasion, several Seattle landmarks will light up in purple in honor of Rapinoe. "I can’t wait to return to Lumen Field for this once-in-a-lifetime moment," Rapinoe told KOMO News. Her statement captures the essence of the celebration perfectly: a testament to the mutual love between the player and the city she represented.
An aspect worth highlighting is the charity work surrounding the event. The partnership announcement between RAVE Foundation, Looking Out Foundation, and Reign FC shines a light on the intersection of sports and social advocacy. The alliance, as described by Catherine Carlile, Executive Director of the Looking Out Foundation, aims to support Reign FC’s efforts to Affirm LGBTQ+ Rights, Further Access to Soccer for all, and to assert and support the power of women and gender diverse people.
_(cropped).jpg){kind=link}