The Portland Hearts of Pine, a USL men’s soccer club that has cultivated a devoted following in Maine since its debut in 2025, is set to add a women’s side that will begin play in the USL W League in May 2027. The initiative reflects a long‑term vision to broaden access to the sport for girls and women across the state.
A Community‑Driven Expansion
Founder Gabe Hoffman‑Johnson said the idea of a women’s team has been part of the club’s blueprint from the outset, noting that community feedback emphasized preserving the Hearts of Pine identity while giving the new squad its own voice.
The USL W League serves as a bridge between youth programs, college soccer and the professional ranks, offering a pre‑professional platform that has attracted increasing attention nationwide. The Portland women’s franchise will contest the Northeast Division alongside other New England clubs.
Matches are slated for approximately six home games in the inaugural season, with all contests planned for Fitzpatrick Stadium pending approval from the Portland City Council. The venue, already a staple for the men’s team, draws crowds of roughly 3,000 fans per game, with sell‑outs a common occurrence.
Season ticket deposits for the women’s team’s first season will be available starting June 11 at noon, a timeline that aligns with the growing appetite for women’s sports in Maine and beyond.
Governor Janet Mills praised the venture, highlighting its potential to accelerate the development of women’s soccer in the state and to inspire the next generation of female athletes.