dames becomes the first U-18 player to sign with Reign FC in club history
SEATTLE, WA. – Seattle Reign FC announced today that it has signed U-18 forward Emeri Adames to a multi-year contract through the 2027 NWSL season via the NWSL’s U-18 Entry Mechanism. Adames joins the Reign as the first U-18 player in club history and becomes the longest contracted player on the Reign’s active roster.
“Becoming a professional and having the opportunity to play for a world-class club is a dream come true,” said Adames. “I’m so excited to begin my career here, alongside this talented group and with the leadership and support of the Reign coaching staff. I’m thankful for the ongoing support from my family and can’t wait to continue this journey.”
The 17-year-old forward has been training with Seattle throughout the 2024 preseason as a non-roster invitee and was committed to the University of North Carolina before signing her first-ever professional contract. Adames spent her first two years of high school attending Waxahachie Life, where she played soccer and was named High School Co-Offensive MVP in 2021 as a freshman after setting the school record for most goals scored in a season (47).
The left-footed winger has also represented the United States at the international level, competing with the U-14 through U-19 teams of the U.S. Women’s Youth National Team. Most recently, Adames helped the U-19 team win bronze at the 2023 Pan American Games, recording three goals and one assist in the tournament. She was also rostered with the U-17 team for the 2022 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and has attended international camps with the U.S. in Dubai, Spain and Sweden.
Adames, a Dallas, Texas, native played at the club level for Solar 06 ECNL, earning ECNL U-16 All American and ECNL U-16 First Team All-Conference honors (2021-22). She was also named ECNL U-15 Texas Conference Player of the Year (2020-21). Before playing for Solar Soccer Club, Adames played on the Dallas Texans.
“We’re elated to sign our first U18 player in Emeri Adames. Her quality of play is only outshone by the quality of her character,” said Seattle Reign FC General Manager Lesle Gallimore. “She has quickly fit in with the team on and off the pitch and is eager to learn, grow and contribute to the club’s success. She is a competitor who does not shy away from taking risks and has a very good work ethic. It’s fun watching her learn from the veteran players around her. I think Emeri will quickly make a name here in Seattle, and over her career, develop into one of the best to wear our crest.”
*Contract is a three-year contract length, with a one-year option. The option will be exercised in Adames’ first regular season appearance.
