PORTLAND, Maine – Governor Janet Mills has proclaimed Thursday, October 15, 2026, as the second-ever Maine Day of Soccer, recognizing the launch of Maine’s new women’s soccer team.
The proclamation creates a meaningful connection between two major moments in the history of The Soccer Club of Maine. Governor Mills first declared a Maine Day of Soccer in April 2024 to mark the unveiling of the Portland Hearts of Pine name, crest and brand identity. This year’s designation comes as the Club prepares to unveil the identity of its new USL W League team, which will begin play in May 2027.
“The Hearts of Pine have brought a tremendous amount of pride and energy to Maine during their first two seasons, and I can’t wait to welcome their new women’s team to Portland,” said Governor Mills. “I’ve declared Thursday as the second-ever Maine Day of Soccer to celebrate a sport that has brought happiness and community to Maine kids and adults for decades and will soon give women and girls a new way to lead and compete. Up the Hearts!”
For the Club, the designation recognizes a women’s team that has been part of the vision from the beginning.
“When we first started dreaming about what the soccer club of Maine could become, a women’s team was always part of that vision. The first Day of Soccer marked the beginning of Hearts of Pine, so there’s something really special about coming full circle and celebrating the second with the launch of USLW team brand.
This is a moment we’ve imagined for a long time, and to see it become real with so much support from people across the state is incredibly meaningful,” said Gabe Hoffman Johnson, Founder and Chief Community Officer for Hearts of Pine.
The proclamation also reflects what the launch represents for the next generation of players and supporters across Maine.
“To have a second Day of Soccer in Maine dedicated to the launch of our women’s team sends a powerful message to girls across the state. It tells them that there is space for them in this game, as players, coaches, leaders, and fans, and that their dreams in soccer are worth celebrating. Sport can be a beacon in that way.
It can help young people see what’s possible, connect them to something bigger than themselves and give them a place to belong,” said Hannah Sirois, Vice President of Fan Experience for Hearts of Pine.
The Club will unveil the new women’s team name, crest and identity Thursday evening in Portland.
READ THE GOVERNOR’S FULL ANNOUNCEMENT / VIEW THE PROCLAMATION