Mia Fishel

The Seattle Reign FC signed forward Mia Fishel to a multiyear contract in 2025. The two-time All-American, nicknamed “Big Fish” (for her love of fishing), talks about the excitement surrounding the FIFA World Cup 2026™ and Seattle’s dynamic sports scene.

A person wearing a beanie, gray sweatshirt, and jeans kicks a soccer ball on a grassy field with trees and soccer goals in the background under a partly cloudy sky. Mia Fishel photo credit David Jaewon Oh

ON HER EXCITEMENT ABOUT FIFA WORLD CUP 2026™

Seattle is such a sports city. I think everyone’s going to be shocked by how loud it’ll be at Lumen Field. When I saw the Sounders play Miami, the cheering was unreal. And it’s so much fun to walk around the stadiums and visit the waterfront. I love strolling along Elliott Bay and people-watching, exploring all the coffee shops, great restaurants, and Pike Place Market.

ON WHAT IT’S LIKE TO ATTEND A REIGN GAME

There’s this great, high-energy atmosphere. Fans can expect us to battle every tackle, and for us to really enjoy what we do on the field. After the games, we always go by the sidelines, to talk to our fans and sign autographs. It’s really cool to meet them and see them bringing their family and friends to our games. They truly help us to win; they’re like the 12th player on the field.

ON LIVING UP TO HER NICKNAME

I like to fish for bass at Washington Park Arboretum in the morning—it’s calming. I love seafood too, like the fish and chips at Ivar’s and sushi at Bamboo Sushi. And I have a membership at the Seattle Aquarium. Their Ocean Pavilion is so cool.

ON HOW SHE ENJOYS SEATTLE

I really enjoy how friendly the people are here. There’s a certain style and this authentic vibe in the city, where people dress however they want to dress. They speak about things that matter to them, and they’re open to the idea that if you’re happy with your life, you can live it the way you want to. I think that’s really cool. I feel so welcome as a newcomer, just being myself out in public. It’s also great being able to see the Mariners play at T-Mobile Park and the Storm at Climate Pledge Arena. I love playing here.

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