Women’s Soccer is Coming to Maine With New Portland Hearts of Pine Team

Huge moment for Maine sports is officially on the horizon.

The Portland Hearts of Pine announced Thursday that they’ve been awarded a franchise in the USL W League, bringing high-level women’s soccer to Maine beginning in May 2027.

I was scrolling through social media when I came across a post from WGME's David Eid, and I practically stopped in my tracks.

My immediate reaction? "Wait... why didn't this happen years ago?"

Naturally, I had to share the news with all of you.

This feels like one of those announcements that's been a long time coming, especially for those of us who love seeing women's sports continue to grow here in Maine. There's already so much excitement surrounding it, and honestly, it's easy to see why.

For the athletes, families, coaches, and fans who have been cheering from the sidelines and pushing for more opportunities, this isn't just about a new team. It's about opening a new chapter and proving there's a real appetite for women's sports in our state.

And judging by the reaction so far, I'd say Maine is more than ready.

Portland Hearts of Pine to Launch USL W League Team in 2027

The USL W League is one of the nation’s premier pre-professional women’s leagues, helping top college athletes develop their game while maintaining NCAA eligibility.

It really makes this direct path between youth, college, and professional soccer, something so many young athletes in Maine have dreamed about for years.

"We are so thrilled to be taking this step in growing the game here in Maine," said Hearts of Pine founder Gabe Hoffman-Johnson.

And judging by the excitement surrounding the announcement, he’s right.

Club leaders say the new team is about visibility, opportunity, and representation, giving girls across Maine the chance to see athletes who look like them competing at an elite level right in their own backyard. 

And let's chat about the community feedback, it has been gathered through town halls earlier this year showed overwhelming support for a women’s team and a desire to help shape its identity from the ground up.

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The team is expected to play about six home matches during its inaugural season and will compete against clubs throughout the Northeast.

And listen, for a state that continues to embrace women’s sports, this announcement feels bigger than soccer.

It’s about creating opportunities, inspiring the next generation, and proving to everyone that our great state of Maine belongs in the growing national conversation around women’s athletics.

The future of women’s soccer in Maine just got a whole lot better and bright for New England..