We started as a culture-led, community-built, and city-backed movement to bring professional soccer to Portland and the state of Maine. Our goal was simple: to create an elite club that reflects the character of Maine and drives economic, community, and cultural value to the city and state.
This team is a reflection of the diverse communities and cultures of Maine, from the Highlands to Downeast, Casco Bay to Acadia, Aroostook to the Forest City.
Over five years in the making, we are now the highest and only level of professional soccer in the Pine Tree State, ready to kick off in USL League 1 in March of 2025 as Portland Hearts of Pine.
The club motto extends the concept of the state motto, Dirigo (Latin for “I lead”), to encompass the club’s central symbol of hope and strength, the heart.
We believe that each and every one of us possesses an internal compass to guide ourselves, our communities, and our club to become the best versions of ourselves. It is evidenced in the conviction, care, and ingenuity inherent to Mainers, which the club sets out to reflect on and off the field.