PORTLAND SOCCER PROJECT
The Portland Soccer Project is a free after-school program that uses soccer as a tool to help kids develop essential social, emotional, and leadership skills — from self-regulation and conflict resolution to teamwork, confidence, and joy.
Inspired by the programming championed in Lewiston by the Rosati Leadership Academy, the Portland Soccer Project launched as a pilot at East End Community School during the 2024–25 school year. What began as a single-site experiment quickly proved its impact, earning renewal and setting the stage for growth. In February 2026, the program expanded to a second location at Talbot Community School, doubling its reach within Portland Public Schools.
During its first year, the Portland Soccer Project hosted 46 two-hour sessions with 40 fourth- and fifth-grade students, guided by a dedicated group of volunteer and educator-coaches who collectively contributed more than 2,200 hours of mentorship and support. Programming extended beyond the field, pairing play with reflection, discussion, and real-world connection — including visits from Hearts of Pine players and matchday experiences. Educators reported meaningful improvements in students’ classroom behavior, leadership, and self-regulation.
Watch the Hearts of Pine mini-documentary above for a look inside the first year of the Portland Soccer Project. With programming now active at both East End and Talbot Community Schools, the project enters its next chapter focused on deepening impact, strengthening partnerships, and continuing to grow access to sport-based youth development across Portland and beyond.
The Hearts of Pine Foundation continues to expand access to sport-based youth development programming, empowering young people to grow as players, leaders, and engaged members of their communities. With goals to grow the Portland Soccer project around the city and state, fans and community members are welcome to support the programming directly by donating to the Hearts of Pine Foundation.