Portland Thorns to open 14th season with rivalry match against Seattle Reign

PORTLAND Ore. (KPTV) - The Portland Thorns will face the Seattle Reign in their season home opener, marking the 14th season of the Pacific Northwest rivalry.

Since the founding of the National Women’s Soccer League 14 years ago, the two Pacific Northwest teams have been rivals.

Fans can join a bike bus meeting at Laurelhurst Skate Park before the match.

“We’re going to have the bike bus meeting at Laurelhurst Skate Park today. So if you’re an avid cyclist, you can join them. They’re going to stop at the sports bra at 6 p.m. And then we’re going to have some drummers outside. The last regiment of syncopated drummers are really going to get the energy flowing before the big TIFO rays with the Riveters. It’s going to be an exciting night,” said Julian Alexander, director of fan development.

The Thorns are coming off a season opener win on the road against the Washington Spirit.

The first 10,000 fans will receive a commemorative cape.

“We’re calling it the blackout. The first 10,000 fans here will get a commemorative cape that they’ll be able to use as a flag, but also they can cape it around. It’ll have the logo. And so, we’re hoping to create a very...we’re calling it blackout the rain, right? So, come down. Enjoy that. Be a part of the festivities,” said Matt Radmanovich, vice president of communications.

The Thorns have a new head coach, Robert Vilahamn, who arrived in the U.S. two days before their first match. Star Sophia Wilson is returning to play after maternity leave.

Fans are encouraged to wear black for Friday’s game. Tickets to the game also serve as tickets to ride TriMet.