Seattle Reign FC Signs Goalkeeper Neeku Purcell as Short-Term Replacement Player
Seattle native and Reign Academy product joins Reign FC following inaugural USL Super League season with Brooklyn FC; Goalkeeper Cassie Miller placed on 45-day injury list
Seattle Reign FC today announced the signing of homegrown goalkeeper Neeku Purcell to a short-term contract as a goalkeeper replacement player for an agreed upon transfer fee. The move follows goalkeeper Cassie Miller being placed on the 45-day injury list after sustaining a leg injury during training.
“We’re excited to welcome Neeku to the first team roster,” said Seattle Reign FC General Manager Lesle Gallimore. “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.”
Purcell, 21, joins Reign FC from Brooklyn FC of the USL Super League. She made 16 starts in 17 appearances and recorded four clean sheets during the league’s inaugural season.
Before turning professional, the Seattle native played at UCLA, conceding just 13 goals in 27 appearances while registering 33 saves. Purcell previously developed with Seattle Reign Academy, where she served as team captain beginning in 2016.
“This opportunity for Neeku is a proud moment for both her and Seattle Reign Academy,” said Seattle Reign Academy Executive Director Amy Griffin. “She chose to grow with us and showed unwavering commitment to her own development and to the culture we’ve been building. Neeku is a respected goalkeeper with a sharp, evolving game, capable of initiating attacks and commanding her box with confidence. Her journey reflects our belief in growth through trust, character and hard work.”
Internationally, Purcell was most recently called into the U.S. Women’s National Team 2025 Futures Camp in January. She has also represented the U.S. at various youth national team levels, from the U-15s through the U-23s. During the 2022 Concacaf U-20 Championship run, Purcell recorded four shutouts, including clean sheets in both the semifinal and final.