Seattle Reign FC Signs Midfielder Maddie Mercado to One-Year Extension with an Option for 2027; Loans Mercado to Carolina Ascent FC
Reign FC extends second-year midfielder through the 2026 season, with a player option for 2027; Mercado joins Carolina Ascent FC of the Gainbridge Super League on loan through the remainder of the year
Seattle Reign FC today announced that midfielder Maddie Mercado has signed a one-year contract extension through the 2026 season, with a player option for 2027. Following her extension, Mercado will join Carolina Ascent FC in the Gainbridge Super League on loan for the remainder of the 2025 campaign.
“We’re excited to extend Maddie Mercado’s future with the club,” said Seattle Reign FC General Manager Lesle Gallimore. “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 first signed with Reign FC after being selected as the 27th overall pick in the 2024 NWSL Draft. Ahead of her second professional season, the 24-year-old signed a deal to remain in Seattle through 2025. Since making her NWSL debut, Mercado has appeared in 16 regular-season matches, including four starts, while recording one goal and one assist. She also featured in all three matches of the 2024 NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup, where she scored once and added an assist against Club Tijuana.
“I'm incredibly proud and grateful to represent the Reign and extend my time with this club,” Mercado. “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.”
The San Diego native played collegiately at the University of Notre Dame, appearing in 94 matches with 62 starts and tallying 26 goals and 12 assists. During her five seasons with the Fighting Irish, she earned Second Team All-ACC honors in 2023, Third Team honors in 2022 and was a three-time All-ACC Academic Team selection.