Community

Hearts of Pine Kicks Off Hearts of Maine Series with Screening of Rosati Documentary in Lewiston

June 23, 2025 by cferragamo

Lewiston, ME — On Thursday, January 16, the Portland Hearts of Pine soccer club hosted a special community event at Lewiston Middle School to celebrate the launch of the Hearts of Maine series, highlighting the transformative power of soccer across the state. The evening featured a screening of Rosati, a short documentary directed by Maine filmmaker Austin Mills, which tells the inspiring story of the Rosati Leadership Academy—a free, city-wide afterschool soccer program in Lewiston focused on social and emotional development for local youth.

The Rosati Leadership Academy uses soccer as a vehicle to teach important life skills such as leadership, teamwork, and resilience, providing an inclusive space for children from diverse backgrounds to grow both on and off the field. With participants speaking multiple languages and coming from various cultures, the program reflects Lewiston’s rich community fabric and the program’s role in fostering personal growth and positive outcomes.

Following the screening, attendees had the opportunity to meet Portland Hearts of Pine’s Coach Bobby Murphy and players, including Lewiston native Khalid Hersi. Khalid’s journey from his hometown to the professional club underscores the powerful role that grossroot programs like Rosati play in nurturing local talent and expanding soccer opportunities throughout Maine. Attendees also heard from local soccer leaders including Lewiston’s own Tom Caron.

Portland Hearts of Pine looks forward to continuing the Hearts of Maine series, sharing more stories that showcase how soccer builds connections and empowers Maine’s next generation.

WATCH FILM

June Newsletter

June 23, 2025 by cferragamo

Missed our June newsletter? No worries, subscribe now to get it straight to your inbox each month and stay up to speed on all the latest.

Hello there!

Gabe here, Hearts Founder & Head Community Officer with our monthly newsletter. It’s Lupine season, which means it’s summer in Maine! The grass is green again, and Annie (my dog) and I have been making the most of getting outside when we can (mostly walks on the Eastern Prom). Hope you’re doing the same!

Plenty happening around Hearts this month. Hard to believe we’ve already had three home matches with another on tap for this weekend. With two wins and a draw, all the fan support… it’s simply been a magical start to pro soccer in Maine. Fitzy is really starting to feel like home.

As always, thank you for showing up, and thank you for believing in us.

Let’s get into it!

We’ve got the best supporters in the world, right here in the best place in the world. Here’s just a small glimpse of what we’ve been hearing—on the pitch, in the stands, and out in the world.

“First off, it was a great game [against Detroit City FC]. The boys played so great. I was impressed how many stayed out so long afterwards and signed for the kids and interacted with the fans. The team is a great addition to Maine, and I feel Maine has their backs too.“

“I am SO PROUD to be a part of this community and to be a Mainer. I can’t stop talking about every single game. UTFH! And thank you!

“Some of us live for the diverse group of people in attendance, on the field, and in our section. It gets better every time. What an awesome community.“

“This is the best thing to happen to Maine in a long time.”

PORTLAND SHELTER SOCCER PROGRAM

I’ve always believed in the power of soccer to create positive change for individuals, families, communities, and the world. It brings people together, creates connection across cultures, and offers a sense of belonging when it’s needed most. As a club, I feel we have a responsibility to use our platform to work towards building a better Maine—and I’m grateful for this opportunity to work alongside the City of Portland to make a meaningful impact in the lives of Mainers.

The truth is, our immigration system is slow and sometimes leaves people without access to work, housing, or food security. But that’s exactly where community can step in!

Thanks to the vision of Tae Chong, Director of Multicultural Strategy at the Maine State Chamber, the leadership of Melissa Hue from the City’s Office of Economic Opportunity, and a little help from us here at Hearts, the Shelter Soccer Program came to life—weekly pickup games for Portland’s immigrant and asylum-seeking communities.

Every week, new Mainers gather to play the beautiful game, with recurring enrichment resources sprinkled in. Recently, Coach Bobby Murphy joined players Walter Varela and JayTee Kamara for a visit. While Bobby watched from the sidelines, Walter and JayTee jumped right in and played with program participants, giving them a Maine welcome they won’t soon forget!

“The season runs for ten months, but people need help every day.” Bobby said.

The positive social/emotional impacts have been incredible to witness. And really, that’s what it’s all about.

IT’S GONNA BE A SUBARU SUMMER!

Our partners over at Pape Subaru have been nationally recognized by Subaru of America for their commitment to community!

The 2025 Subaru Love Promise Community Commitment Award goes to retailers who don’t just sell cars—they deliver an exceptional experience every time and show up for the causes that matter most locally. Whether it’s the environment, health, or education, these folks lead with their hearts.

If you need new wheels for all your summer adventures, you know where to go. You can also check out some of their other awesome community initiatives below.

WATCH NOW

Are you planning a trip to Maine for a Hearts match? Or just looking for the best brews, hikes and more this summer? Get the inside scoop delivered straight to your inbox— subscribe to Visit Maine’s newsletter today here!

COACH OF THE MONTH!

Bobby has been named USL League One Coach of the Month for May.

We had our first home win, went undefeated all month and took down a USL Championship club in the Jägermeister Cup. Despite all the long road trips across the country to start the season, under Bobby’s leadership, this team is getting stronger. And now, folks are taking notice.

What you might not see on the stat sheet: Bobby is the one saying yes to school visits and community events. He’s the one that shows up with cookies for staff just because. He’s the one who suggested playing “Can’t Help Falling in Love” before kickoff.

Simply put, he gets it. He’s the first to point out that this only works because everyone shows up—players, staff, and you. It’s a thread running through all of us and everything we’re building as a community, together.

There’s something special about the supporters all standing together, scarves held high, singing Elvis and chanting as one to the rhythm of “Hearts.”

There’s a reason why we’ve been so tough to beat at home. Let’s make some noise for Bobby this weekend. Congrats, Coach. We’re lucky to have you.

JOIN US IN RHODE ISLAND!

We’re hitting the road—but not too far. Join us down in Rhode Island on Friday, June 27 for our away match against Rhode Island FC in the Jägermeister Cup. Kickoff’s at 7:00pm. If our Open Cup match in Lewiston was any indication, it’s shaping up to be a proper New England showdown.

Let’s get a crew together and cheer on the boys of Maine.

DETAILS
When: Friday, June 27 at 7:00pm
Where:11 Tidewater Street, Pawtucket, RI 02860
Opponent: Rhode Island FC

SEE YOU AT PRIDE!

We had such a blast last year, we’re doing it all over again!

On Saturday, June 21 at 1:30pm, the Hearts crew is marching in the Portland Pride Parade. It’s a wicked fun day full of celebration, connection, and a chance to show up for our LGBTQ+ family in the ways that matter.

We’ll also be dropping some Hearts of Pride merch in the days leading up to the parade, with a portion of those proceeds going to EqualityMaine, a nonprofit doing incredible work advocating for equality across the state. We hope to see you there!

HOW WE GET THERE, A HEARTS OF PINE FILM

What a night.

Huge thanks to everyone who packed the Lincoln Theatre up in Damariscotta for the premiere of How We Get There—the second film in our Hearts of Maine series.

If you missed it, it’s set along the Damariscotta River and follows Jon, an oyster farmer whose path through fatherhood and healing takes an unexpected turn when his son invites him to his first pro soccer match.

After the screening, we rolled straight into a live-streamed watch party as the boys took on the Chattanooga Red Wolves —first time the Lincoln’s ever hosted a film premiere and a match in the same night. Won’t forget that one.

We talk a lot about storytelling—because around here, it matters. It connects the past to the present, and reminds us how showing up for someone can change the course of a life. Between matches, between moments, that’s the thread pulling this whole thing together.

Missed any of the Hearts of Maine films? No prob, link is below—and fair warning: someone might be cutting onions…

WATCH NOW

THE SOCCER CLUB OF MAINE

We may be “Portland” Hearts of Pine, but we’re the Soccer Club of Maine. Are there spots outside of Portland we should bring the next watch party to? Soccer bars, local hangouts, hidden gems—we want to know about them.

Drop your favorites below. We’re all ears and ready to roll!

SUBMIT HERE

Well folks, thanks for sticking with me! And until next month…

Building community though the beautiful game,

Gabe

A Night of Storytelling and Soccer: Hearts of Pine Premieres How We Get There at Lincoln Theater

June 13, 2025 by cferragamo

Damariscotta, ME — On Saturday, June 7, Portland Hearts of Pine hosted a one-of-a-kind evening at the historic Lincoln Theater, premiering their newest short film, How We Get There, the latest installment in the Hearts of Maine mini-documentary series.

The event drew a full house, with attendees filling the downtown Damariscotta venue for a night that combined cinematic storytelling, community, and live sport. Before the film began, attendees enjoyed fresh Norumbega Oysters and browsed a pop-up stand featuring a limited selection of Hearts merchandise.

Set against the backdrop of the Damariscotta River, How We Get There follows Jon, a local oyster farmer navigating fatherhood and inter generational healing. The story takes an emotional turn when his young son invites him to his first professional soccer match — an invitation sealed by six simple words:

“I would stand in a hurricane for this team.”

Following the screening, the crowd stayed on for a live-streamed watch party as Hearts took on the Chattanooga Red Wolves — the first time in the Lincoln’s long history that a film premiere was paired with live professional soccer.

The evening reflected what makes this club different: the connection between people, the power of place, and the belief that stories — like teams — are built one moment at a time.

How We Get There premiered on YouTube the following evening, Sunday, June 9, and is now available to stream.

Hearts are Finally Home, Reflections from Club Founder Gabe Hoffman-Johnson following Inaugural Home Opener

May 7, 2025 by cferragamo

In the days following Hearts’ Inaugural Season Home Opener at Fitzpatrick Stadium, Hearts’ Founder and Chief Community Officer Gabe Hoffman-Johnson shared a heartfelt reaction on his LinkedIn celebrating the a milestone for the club, the city, and the state.

“Pro Soccer has officially landed in Portland, Maine and the feeling is simply indescribable.

A sellout crowd came together for a historic evening, braving the elements as only Mainers do. Over 5 years in the making. Brick by brick. A club built by Mainers, for Mainers. Anchored locally. Born of, and rooted in, this wonderful community. There is something incredibly special about what’s going on up here in Northern New England.

This is truly the community’s club. Reflecting and representing our sense of place in everything we do. Inviting the community at large to feel and “BE” a part of it all since day one = the authenticity, connective tissue, and sense of community ownership that dreams are made of. Embodied joy and a collective pride in our home state.

I believe in the power of this beautiful game to change the world. I believe in the potential of a values-based community-connected organization, if cultivated and grown the right way, to activate and build agency in others and drive positive societal impact. To draw people in. To attract. To provide the outlet and connection we all yearn for. Because the exact vision and values it embodies are the same vision and values that we all instinctually want pulled out of ourselves.

People want to have their best selves invited to come forward. People want to be invited to lead with their hearts.

With all the outside noise and chaotic context we navigate daily… I invite you to enjoy the stunningly suitable words of an anonymous attendee.

“The fact that nobody seemed to care that it was raining (just like all the Lewiston games) and everyone had a genuine smile on their faces. I’m telling you, these games and this organization has become a part of my mental health and self-care practice. When I attend HOP games, I literally feel like I’m transported into a utopian experience- the instant camaraderie, joyous atmosphere, community, and inclusion for ALL. I want to thank you for this incredible experience when outside of the game there is too much negativity and divisiveness. HOP is healing hearts and providing hope where otherwise there may not have been. Such a priceless gift that I will never take for granted.”

I’m humbled and grateful. It takes a village… and only as successful as the community makes it. Holy sh*t, we’re off to a good start!

The soccer club of Maine is here. The only thing left to say is… join us. If you want to be a part of it… you already are.

Gabe Hoffman-Johnson
Founder & Chief Community Officer

April Newsletter

April 23, 2025 by cferragamo

Hey There Bub,

I can’t believe it’s already late April—can you?! Time is flying, we’re less than two weeks from our inaugural season home opener, and there’s so much happening at Hearts.

For those new to the movement, I’m Gabe, founder and Chief Community Officer of Portland Hearts of Pine. We’re a culture-led, community-built club bringing professional soccer to Maine.

Since launching the Hearts brand in April 2024, we’ve hit some incredible milestones: 33 amazing partnerships (huge thanks to all of them!), over 4,000 season ticket memberships, our inaugural home and away kits revealed (plus two goalie kits), our first-ever competitive matches played right here in Maine, and our first few away matches in the books. The best part? We’re just getting started.

This month we proudly announced our Community Ticketing Impact Program that will ensure fans, regardless of their backgrounds or financial situations, have the opportunity to join us at ‘Fitzy’ during our inaugural season.

Here at Hearts, we recognize the impact we can have in our communities if we use our platform thoughtfully and intentionally. New research shows that attending live sporting events results in higher scores of two major measurements of subjective well-being – life satisfaction and a sense of “life being worthwhile” – in addition to lower levels of loneliness. This is significant as previous studies show higher life satisfaction scores are associated with fewer life-limiting conditions and better physical health, successful aging, and lower mortality rates. I love the public health implications of this program, and it’s something we plan to continue leaning into in the future.

MORE ABOUT THE PROGRAM

Last week, our U.S. Open Cup run came to a close, and I’m filled with gratitude reflecting on our time there. It strikes me as especially fitting that our first set of “home” matches were played in Lewiston; such a vibrant and culturally diverse city with a strong sense of community and shared love of soccer. As the soccer club of Maine, expanding our home stadium horizons felt like the right thing to do. Looking back, we couldn’t have chosen a better place.

The Cup is grassroots American soccer at its core— and in many ways, it mirrors what we’re building here at this club. That shared ethos came to life during our cup run as thousands of Mainers braved cold and rainy weeknights, and gathered around the pitch in Lewiston to support our boys of Maine. Each game brought the kind of moments you’ll never forget and something I’ll carry with me forever.

I often get asked how it feels, now that the club is here. Now that we’ve done it. What are my favorite parts? For me, it always comes back to the people. The stories we hear along the way, from lifelong soccer supporters to folks just beginning to fall in love with the game, and the community around it, are the special sauce that reminds us why we do what we do.

__________

“We showed up to the jersey reveal in November knowing nothing about soccer — or sports in general. We’re very much the ‘Go Sports!’ type of people. That night, we realized it’s SO much more than a game. It’s a unifier and a lifeline for so many people. We decided to attend the first Lewiston match and are now hoping to become Season Ticket Members next year. I can’t explain it, but there’s something magical about all this. And it’s not going away anytime soon, and neither are we.”

“I was truly moved to tears last night being witness to all of the love and support our community brought to Lewiston- in spite of the chilly, damp weather. I hope the players and all those who have worked so tirelessly to make this dream team come to fruition realizes how much we appreciate you all. I’ve told countless people how incredible the experience was, and how genuinely uplifting and joyous the evening was. These days, we’re inundated with negativity and divisiveness, yet while at the game, we were all there together as one, having fun and putting any negativity aside. It genuinely cleansed my soul, and has allowed me to embrace the motto of “Lead with your Heart!” Thank you all so much, and we truly CAN’T WAIT for this season!”

“As a teacher at LHS and longtime community member, it was phenomenal to greet and watch Khalid Hersi at home! What he is modeling for our students is beyond what any classroom could teach…”

MISS THE MATCH? CATCH THE RECAP.

You can find a full recap for every match on our website, including highlights, photos, videos, and more. It’s the perfect spot to catch up if you missed the game or need a go-to resource for all the action! Visit our news tab on the website to find each one.

MATCH RECAPS

We recently unveiled two Goalkeeper Kits, and they’re available online for preorder! Grab all your Hearts gear online or in store right here in Portland. My recent favorites? I can’t go anywhere without my Hearts Navy Trucker Hat or the U.S. Open Cup Long Sleeve.

GOALKEEPER KITS

NEW ARRIVALS

SHOP ONLINE

SHOP IN STORE

Can’t make it to the game but still want to be part of the action? Join us at one of our official watch party locations right here in Portland and cheer on the team!

CHECK OUT ALL OUR WATCH PARTIES

$3 DEWEYS WATCH PARTY

Our next watch party is at $3 Deweys on Saturday, May 10th at 8 PM as we take on Union Omaha! Enjoy giveaways, prizes, exclusive limited-edition collab. merchandise, and more — it’s going to be a night you won’t want to miss!

RSVP TODAY

WHAT I’VE BEEN WATCHING

One doc that’s been popping up in just about every conversation lately is Join or Die on Netflix. It follows the 50-year journey of legendary social scientist Robert Putnam, whose groundbreaking Bowling Alone research dug deep into America’s unraveling sense of community (and you know how I feel about community connection!).

Through stories from grassroots groups to national leaders, the film tackles three big questions: What makes a society strong and resilient? Why are we feeling more isolated, anxious, and divided? And how do we rebuild the connections that hold us together?

It’s thoughtful, timely, and honestly I love the parallels to the real power of this beautiful game. Soccer is the great leveler, the great unifier – it brings people together from all backgrounds – not only in the stands, but in our communities. The power to strengthen bonds and create new ones, the power to build community is soccer’s real power… and something Hearts aims to amplify each and every day.

Our City. Our State. Our Club.

Okay, I might sound like a broken record, but if you’ve scrolled this far (and even if you just skipped to the bottom), I have to say it—thank you. Seriously. Whether you’ve been here since day one or just showed up, you’ve helped make this thing real. Hearts wouldn’t be Hearts without you.

Until next time.

Building community though the beautiful game,

Gabe

Portland Hearts of Pine Announce Community Ticketing Program

April 8, 2025 by cferragamo

PORTLAND, Maine – The lifeblood of any soccer team is its supporters. From the moment Portland was granted franchise rights to join USL League One, Hearts of Pine have been committed to ensuring those fans filling Fitzpatrick Stadium reflect all Mainers.

Today, we’re proud to announce our Community Ticketing Program that will ensure all fans, regardless of their backgrounds or financial situations, have the opportunity to join us at ‘Fitzy’ during our inaugural season.

Over the course of the 2025 season, 1400 tickets will be distributed to the City of Portland’s Office of Economic Opportunity, Portland public schools, local youth soccer organizations, the Portland Housing Authority, and MaineHealth for those organizations to distribute to in-need members of their respective communities as they see fit.

“From day one, Hearts of Pine recognized the outsized role we can play in strengthening connections and building community here in Maine,” said founder and chief community officer Gabe Hoffman-Johnson. “We see it as a responsibility—it’s one of our core tenants and reasons for being. We’re thrilled to be able to provide equitable access across the diverse mosaic of communities we have here for our inaugural season. It’s a true testament to our partners’ shared vision for helping bring this to life.”

The initiative will benefit the Quality Housing Coalition, the YMCA Family Shelter, Portland Community Health Outreach, Prosperity Maine, the Greater Portland Immigrant Welcome Center, minority owned businesses, and more.

“So many Portland Public Schools’ students, staff, and families feel a deep connection to soccer,” said Andrea Weisman Summers, executive director of the Foundation for Portland Public Schools. “It’s a great example of an interest that is shared across cultures. We’ve already worked with Hearts of Pine around gear donations for students and we’re thrilled that the team donated a block of season tickets to distribute to schools.”

“[Soccer] transcends cultures, religions, ethnicities, and races, bringing people together to cheer for each other,” said Melissa Hue, director of the Office of Economic Opportunity in the City of Portland’s Housing and Economic Development Department. “So, when [Hearts of Pine founder Gabe Hoffman-Johnson] reached out about donating tickets to communities that may not have the means or opportunity to attend a game, I thought, ‘This is what it’s all about.’ It’s about creating a space where everyone shows up to cheer, support, and take pride in their community.

“This aligns perfectly with the mission of the Office of Economic Opportunity. Providing resources and opportunities to those in need is at the heart of what we do. This partnership with Hearts of Pine is an incredible chance to bring a bit of joy (an undervalued resource) to those communities.”

“By opening their doors to our Portland soccer families, Hearts are showing how important community is,” said Tyrone Daniels, president of Portland Area Youth Soccer Association. “I believe these game day experiences will provide our families with a sense of belonging and importance, and will hopefully spark a new level of excitement and belief in what’s possible. Thanks to Portland Hearts of Pine, our youth now have a real, local example of what their future in soccer could look like.”

Portland Hearts of Pine will host Rhode Island FC in the third round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup at Lewiston High School on April 15. Single tickets for Portland’s regular season home opener, at Fitzpatrick Stadium on May 4, will go on sale at noon on April 9. Individual tickets for all other matches will go on sale May 12.

All tickets will be available at tickets.heartsofpine.com.