First Tech Federal Credit Union Sponsors New Portland Thorns Statistician Role

Posted by Alyse Knudsen on July 16, 2025

First Tech Federal Credit Union has shown its support for the Portland Thorns FC by creating a new, paid Performance Data Coordinator role. This position aims to enhance the team’s data capabilities and strengthen 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 an innovative approach to sponsorship—one that actively works to address equity gaps in women’s sports.

This position will provide unique statistical insights, contribute to the team’s competitive advantage through better-informed decisions, offer insights on player performance, and support tactical game planning. The new role will also generate compelling reports on content performance and use statistics to engage fans by sharing match analysis on social media and during games.

“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 with significant implications for our athletes, staff, and supporters, we rely on data to guide us with clarity and purpose. This new role, made possible through our partnership with First Tech, aims to build a smarter, more connected future for women’s soccer.”

As a proud partner of the Portland Thorns FC, First Tech is proactively addressing longstanding inequities in women’s sports by focusing on the often-overlooked area of data analytics. The newly funded Performance Data Coordinator role is not meant to replace existing technology systems but to complement them, serving as a crucial link between the team and its fans by delivering insightful game analysis and accessible performance data to enhance understanding and encourage greater engagement 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 excited to support this exciting step forward for women’s soccer. As the credit union for the people of tech, we’re dedicated to advancing STEM education in underrepresented communities. By integrating advanced statistical analysis into the game for the Thorns, we’re not only improving the fan experience but also reaffirming our commitment 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

Posted in Community Impact, Oregon, Regional Member News.