PORTLAND, Ore. and HILLSBORO, Ore. – July 7, 2025 – First Tech Federal Credit Union (First Tech) announced today its support for the Portland Thorns FC through the funding of a new, paid Performance Data Coordinator role. This position is designed to strengthen the team’s data capabilities and deepen fan engagement through advanced analytics and reporting. By investing in this role as part of its First Tech Beyond™ program, First Tech continues to demonstrate its innovative approach to sponsorship — one that actively addresses equity gaps in women’s sports.
Statistics and Analytics Play Central Role in Modern Soccer
This position will be responsible for providing unique statistical insights, contributing to the team's competitive edge enabled by better informed decisions, insights on player performance and support of tactical game planning. The new role will also help deliver compelling reports on content performance and utilize statistics to engage fans through the sharing of match analysis on social media as well as during matches.
“Data is at the core of how we operate — on and off the field. It informs everything from tactical decisions during matches to how we connect with our fans and grow the game,” said Alexis Lee, President of Business Operations for the Portland Thorns. “When we’re making decisions that have significant implications for our athletes, our staff and our supporters, we rely on data to guide us with clarity and intention. This new role, made possible through our partnership with First Tech, is about building a smarter, more connected future for women’s soccer.”
As a proud partner of the Portland Thorns FC, First Tech is taking a proactive approach to addressing long-standing inequities in women’s sports by identifying and investing in the often-overlooked area of data analytics. The newly funded Performance Data Coordinator role is not intended to replace existing technology systems, but rather to complement them—serving as a vital link between the team and its fans by delivering insightful game analysis and accessible performance data that will enrich the fans’ understanding and encourage them to be even more engaged during matches.
“First Tech is proud to be at the forefront of a new era in sponsorship — one that goes beyond logos and signage to deliver real community impact,” said Mairi Burns, VP of Brand Marketing at First Tech. “We’re thrilled to support this exciting leap forward for women’s soccer. As the credit union for the people of tech, we’re committed to advancing STEM education in underrepresented communities. By integrating advanced statistical analysis into the game for the Thorns, we’re not only enhancing the fan experience but also reinforcing our dedication to innovation, equity and excellence—on and off the field.”
This initiative reflects a shared vision between First Tech and the Portland Thorns: to elevate the game through innovation while championing equity in sports. By introducing a role that merges data science with fan engagement, the Thorns are not only enhancing their competitive edge but also creating new pathways for talent in a field that has historically lacked representation. The impact of this role is already being felt — both on the pitch and in the stands.
“As someone passionate about soccer and community with a background in economics, I'm looking forward to applying data and analytics to support women’s sports,” said Yahaira Rodriguez, Performance Data Coordinator for the Portland Thorns. “I’m grateful for First Tech Credit Union’s commitment to supporting women in STEM and I’m excited to show how data can enhance collaboration, innovation and excellence on and off the field.”
This groundbreaking role marks a first for the Portland Thorns and sets a new standard for how data and sports can intersect to drive progress. Through their partnership, First Tech and the Thorns are proving that meaningful change happens when purpose meets action — on the field, in the community and beyond.
About Portland Thorns FC
Founded in 2012, Portland Thorns FC have set the standard for fan support and on-field success in women’s soccer since its inaugural 2013 season. One of the world’s most supported women’s soccer clubs, Portland has led the league in attendance for eight seasons and set a new club playoff attendance record with 25,218 fans supporting Thorns FC in the 2023 semifinal match at Providence Park. Thorns FC have won the NWSL Championship a league-record three times (2013, 2017, 2022) and finished as runners-up in 2018. The club has made the postseason a league-high nine times and has won the NWSL Shield in 2016 and 2021.
About RAJ Sports
RAJ Sports, led by Alex Bhathal and Lisa Bhathal Merage, focuses on investment opportunities in sports and sports-related properties, drawing on the Bhathal family’s multi-generational experience and relationships in the industry. The firm seeks to leverage the power of sports to affect broader social and economic change through a variety of business and philanthropic strategies. Its deep experience in professional sports operations and large-scale real estate developments that create thriving community centers, positions the firm to deliver valuable assets that will support further growth for the players, staff and fans. In 2013, the Bhathal family became investors in the Sacramento Kings (NBA); subsequently building the platform to include the Sacramento RiverCats (MiLB), Stockton Kings (NBA G-League) and several sports anchored real estate developments. The 2024 acquisitions of Portland Thorns (NWSL) and the WNBA Portland expansion team represents a milestone for the city of Portland and places it at the epicenter of growth for women’s sports.
About First Tech Federal Credit Union
First Tech Federal Credit Union is a nearly $17 billion institution headquartered in San Jose, California. The nation’s premier credit union serves the world’s leading technology-oriented companies and their employees, including HP Inc., Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Microsoft, Agilent, Intel, Cisco, Amazon, Nike, Intuit, Google, and more. First Tech is recognized as the industry catalyst for delivering effortless banking experiences to more than 700,000 members through its 31 branch locations, more than 5,600 CO-OP Shared Branch locations, 30,000 CO-OP Network ATMs, and online platforms. First Tech offers a full range of financial services, including traditional banking, online banking, mortgages, financial planning, various consumer loans, and insurance services. Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Lender. For more information, visit www.firsttechfed.com.
MEDIA CONTACTS
For First Tech Federal Credit Union:
Sophia Gilbert
The Hoffman Agency
(541) 521-2459
firsttech@hoffman.com
For Portland Thorns FC:
Matt Radmanovich
mradmanovich@thorns.com
PORTLAND, Ore. (Saturday, August 15, 2026) – The Portland Thorns continued their impressive home form with a 2-1 win over Orlando Pride on Saturday when forward Caiya Hanks — who was making her return to the pitch after missing action for over a year with an ACL injury — scored a stoppage time winner to secure three points for the home side.
Both sides battled back and forth as they tried to search for the opening goal, with Thorns goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold making three saves to ensure the match remained level going into the halftime break.
The Thorns came out into the second half much more threatening in Orlando’s half and finally broke the deadlock in the 58th minute when forward Pietra Tordin laid the ball off to forward Deyna Castellanos, who from the top right corner of Orlando’s box placed the ball perfectly into the top left corner of the goal over the hands of Orlando goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse.
The lead was short lived however when Arnold’s diving save to punch out a crossed ball in the 63rd minute ricocheted off the knees of Orlando forward Jacqueline Ovalle and rolled into the net to level things back up.
From there, Portland and Orlando continued in their fight to search for a second and despite several good looks at goal, the match remained level.
That would all change after Hanks — who subbed on in the 88th minute — curled the ball into the goal from outside the box in the 96th to send Providence Park into a frenzy as the Thorns secured three points and extended its home unbeaten streak to 12 matches, nine on the season.
UP NEXT: The Portland Thorns host Denver Summit FC for the first time at Providence Park on Saturday, August 22. Kickoff is scheduled for 5:45 pm PT on ION and 910 ESPN Portland. Purchase tickets for the match HERE.
TEAM NOTES
GOAL BREAKDOWN
First Half
N/A
Second Half
POR – Deyna Castellanos (Pietra Tordin) 58’
ORL – Jacqueline Ovalle 63’
POR – Caiya Hanks (M.A. Vignola) 90+6’
LINEUPS
Portland Thorns (4-2-3-1): Mackenzie Arnold (GK), M.A. Vignola, Jayden Perry, Isabella Obaze (Sam Hiatt 78’), Carolyn Calzada, Jessie Fleming-C, Nina Nijstad (Cassandra Bogere 85’), Pietra Tordin (Caiya Hanks 88’), Deyna Castellanos (Renee Lyles 78’), Marie Müller (Morgan Weaver 67’), Sophia Wilson
Subs not used: Morgan Messner (GK), Reyna Reyes, Shae Harvey, Mallie McKenzie
Orlando Pride (4-4-2): Anna Moorhouse (GK), Hailie Mace (Gabi Nunes 90+8’), Rafaelle (Zoe Matthews 89’), Cori Dyke, Oihane Hernández (Zara Chavoshi 76’), Solai Washington, Ally Lemos, Haley McCutcheon-C, Julie Doyle (Summer Yates 65’), Jacqueline Ovalle, Barbra Banda (Angelina 65’)
Subs not used: Cara Martin (GK), Cossette Morche, Luana, Nicole Payne
MISCONDUCT SUMMARY
POR: N/A
ORL: Jacqueline Ovalle (Yellow) 40’, Julie Doyle (Yellow) 52’, Rafaelle (Yellow) 85’
MATCH STATS
POR | ORL
Goals: 2|1
Assists: 2|0
Possession: 51|49
Shots: 10|12
Shots on Target: 4|6
Saves: 5|2
Tackles: 16|16
Tackles Won: 9|11
Interceptions: 14|26
Fouls: 7|6
Offsides: 0|1
Corner Kicks: 0|6
ATTENDANCE: 19,106
Referee: Brad Jensen
Assistant Referee 1: Katarzyna Wasiak
Assistant Referee 2: Sarah Gaddes
4th Official: Justin St. Pierre
VAR: Danielle Chesky
Assistant VAR: Seun Yinka-Kehinde
PORTLAND, Ore. and HILLSBORO, Ore. – July 7, 2025 – First Tech Federal Credit Union (First Tech) announced today its support for the Portland Thorns FC through the funding of a new, paid Performance Data Coordinator role. This position is designed to strengthen the team’s data capabilities and deepen fan engagement through advanced analytics and reporting. By investing in this role as part of its First Tech Beyond™ program, First Tech continues to demonstrate its innovative approach to sponsorship — one that actively addresses equity gaps in women’s sports.
Statistics and Analytics Play Central Role in Modern Soccer
This position will be responsible for providing unique statistical insights, contributing to the team's competitive edge enabled by better informed decisions, insights on player performance and support of tactical game planning. The new role will also help deliver compelling reports on content performance and utilize statistics to engage fans through the sharing of match analysis on social media as well as during matches.
“Data is at the core of how we operate — on and off the field. It informs everything from tactical decisions during matches to how we connect with our fans and grow the game,” said Alexis Lee, President of Business Operations for the Portland Thorns. “When we’re making decisions that have significant implications for our athletes, our staff and our supporters, we rely on data to guide us with clarity and intention. This new role, made possible through our partnership with First Tech, is about building a smarter, more connected future for women’s soccer.”
As a proud partner of the Portland Thorns FC, First Tech is taking a proactive approach to addressing long-standing inequities in women’s sports by identifying and investing in the often-overlooked area of data analytics. The newly funded Performance Data Coordinator role is not intended to replace existing technology systems, but rather to complement them—serving as a vital link between the team and its fans by delivering insightful game analysis and accessible performance data that will enrich the fans’ understanding and encourage them to be even more engaged during matches.
“First Tech is proud to be at the forefront of a new era in sponsorship — one that goes beyond logos and signage to deliver real community impact,” said Mairi Burns, VP of Brand Marketing at First Tech. “We’re thrilled to support this exciting leap forward for women’s soccer. As the credit union for the people of tech, we’re committed to advancing STEM education in underrepresented communities. By integrating advanced statistical analysis into the game for the Thorns, we’re not only enhancing the fan experience but also reinforcing our dedication to innovation, equity and excellence—on and off the field.”
This initiative reflects a shared vision between First Tech and the Portland Thorns: to elevate the game through innovation while championing equity in sports. By introducing a role that merges data science with fan engagement, the Thorns are not only enhancing their competitive edge but also creating new pathways for talent in a field that has historically lacked representation. The impact of this role is already being felt — both on the pitch and in the stands.
“As someone passionate about soccer and community with a background in economics, I'm looking forward to applying data and analytics to support women’s sports,” said Yahaira Rodriguez, Performance Data Coordinator for the Portland Thorns. “I’m grateful for First Tech Credit Union’s commitment to supporting women in STEM and I’m excited to show how data can enhance collaboration, innovation and excellence on and off the field.”
This groundbreaking role marks a first for the Portland Thorns and sets a new standard for how data and sports can intersect to drive progress. Through their partnership, First Tech and the Thorns are proving that meaningful change happens when purpose meets action — on the field, in the community and beyond.
About Portland Thorns FC
Founded in 2012, Portland Thorns FC have set the standard for fan support and on-field success in women’s soccer since its inaugural 2013 season. One of the world’s most supported women’s soccer clubs, Portland has led the league in attendance for eight seasons and set a new club playoff attendance record with 25,218 fans supporting Thorns FC in the 2023 semifinal match at Providence Park. Thorns FC have won the NWSL Championship a league-record three times (2013, 2017, 2022) and finished as runners-up in 2018. The club has made the postseason a league-high nine times and has won the NWSL Shield in 2016 and 2021.
About RAJ Sports
RAJ Sports, led by Alex Bhathal and Lisa Bhathal Merage, focuses on investment opportunities in sports and sports-related properties, drawing on the Bhathal family’s multi-generational experience and relationships in the industry. The firm seeks to leverage the power of sports to affect broader social and economic change through a variety of business and philanthropic strategies. Its deep experience in professional sports operations and large-scale real estate developments that create thriving community centers, positions the firm to deliver valuable assets that will support further growth for the players, staff and fans. In 2013, the Bhathal family became investors in the Sacramento Kings (NBA); subsequently building the platform to include the Sacramento RiverCats (MiLB), Stockton Kings (NBA G-League) and several sports anchored real estate developments. The 2024 acquisitions of Portland Thorns (NWSL) and the WNBA Portland expansion team represents a milestone for the city of Portland and places it at the epicenter of growth for women’s sports.
About First Tech Federal Credit Union
First Tech Federal Credit Union is a nearly $17 billion institution headquartered in San Jose, California. The nation’s premier credit union serves the world’s leading technology-oriented companies and their employees, including HP Inc., Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Microsoft, Agilent, Intel, Cisco, Amazon, Nike, Intuit, Google, and more. First Tech is recognized as the industry catalyst for delivering effortless banking experiences to more than 700,000 members through its 31 branch locations, more than 5,600 CO-OP Shared Branch locations, 30,000 CO-OP Network ATMs, and online platforms. First Tech offers a full range of financial services, including traditional banking, online banking, mortgages, financial planning, various consumer loans, and insurance services. Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Lender. For more information, visit www.firsttechfed.com.
MEDIA CONTACTS
For First Tech Federal Credit Union:
Sophia Gilbert
The Hoffman Agency
(541) 521-2459
firsttech@hoffman.com
For Portland Thorns FC:
Matt Radmanovich
mradmanovich@thorns.com
.avif)
