The 66-times capped international had previously agreed a
new contract to stay with Bristol throughout the 2013 season, but has instead
opted to move to the States and compete in the inaugural National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), which begins this spring.
She refused to rule out a return for The Vixens, saying on
Twitter: “I would like to thank everyone at Bristol Academy for everything they’ve
done for me, I’m sure I haven’t played my last game for them.
“For now I can’t wait to get started in Seattle and look
forward to meeting my team-mates as and when I get to the States.”
Following the NWSL Player Allocation on January 13, Fishlock
will line-up alongside Team USA superstars Hope Solo, Megan Rapinoe and Amy Rodriguez
at the Starfire Stadium.
The league comprises eight teams, four of them survivors
from the Women’s Professional Soccer (WPS) league, with her opponents being
Boston Breakers, Chicago Red Stars, FC Kansas City, Portland Thorns, Sky Blue
(New Jersey), Washington Spirit and Western New York Flash.
The 26-year-old spent three years at Bristol over two spells,
as well as previous spells abroad with AZ Alkmaar in Holland and Melbourne
Victory in Australia. That spell in Holland saw Fishlock become the first Welsh
Women’s international to play professionally abroad.
Fishlock was a success in the west county, particularly
after Bristol Academy formed part of the Women’s Super League in 2011.
She helped the club to the 2011 Women’s FA Cup Final, where
they lost 2-0 to Arsenal, as well as the last 32 of the UEFA Women’s Champions
League. She twice won the club and fan’s player of the year, made the WSL
All-Star Team on one occasion, and picked up the 2012 FA WSL Player’s Player of
the Year award.
A club statement
said: “The club would like to thank Jess for her contribution over the last two
seasons and wish her all the best for the future.”
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