#United States #Portland #First Tech #Portland Thorns #Data Coordinator

First Tech Federal Credit Union Elevates Portland Thorns with New Statistical Role

In a groundbreaking move to promote women's sports, First Tech Federal Credit Union has announced its support for the Portland Thorns FC by funding a new paid Performance Data Coordinator position. This role aims to enhance the team’s data capabilities, deepen fan engagement, and bridge the gap in women's sports representation. As part of their First Tech Beyond™ program, the credit union's commitment goes beyond traditional sponsorship by actively addressing equity gaps in athletics.

The newly created position focuses on providing statistical insights that will sharpen the competitive edge of the Thorns FC. This involves not just data collection but also rigorous analysis that will inform tactical gameplay and improve player performance metrics. By sharing insights through match reports and engaging social media content, this initiative is set to deepen fan interactions and promote an analytical understanding of the game.

The Importance of Data in Modern Soccer

“Data is at the core of how we operate — on and off the field,” emphasizes Alexis Lee, President of Business Operations for the Thorns. The focus on advanced analytics is part of a broader trend where teams leverage data science to make informed decisions that influence everything from player selections to game strategies. The Performance Data Coordinator will play a pivotal role in transforming raw statistics into comprehensible insights, making the game more engaging for fans.

First Tech's sponsorship signifies a forward-thinking approach to sports sponsorship, moving away from surface-level branding to a model that invests in community and development. Mairi Burns, VP of Brand Marketing at First Tech, states, “We're thrilled to support this exciting leap forward for women's soccer,” underlining the dual focus on fan engagement and STEM education for underrepresented communities.

A Commitment to Women in Sports & STEM

The initiative aims not only to improve the team's engagement with fans but also to encourage young women to explore careers in data science and analytics. Yahaira Rodriguez, who has been appointed as the Performance Data Coordinator, shares her excitement about the role, stating, “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 partnership represents a unique blend of sports and technology, encouraging other organizations to rethink their sponsorship models. As the Thorns continue to set attendance records and accumulate championships, the team is now stepping into a new realm of sports analytics, demonstrating that data can enhance both performance and fan experience.

About First Tech Federal Credit Union & Portland Thorns FC

First Tech Federal Credit Union, headquartered in San Jose, California, caters to the financial needs of technology professionals and their families. With nearly $17 billion in assets and over 700,000 members, it offers a full suite of banking services while advocating for STEM education in underserved communities.

Portland Thorns FC, founded in 2012, have established themselves as leaders in women's soccer, boasting a passionate fan base and numerous accolades, including three NWSL Championships. Their recent achievements reflect not only athletic prowess but also a commitment to growing the sport and enhancing the fan experience through innovative approaches.

Through the collaboration between First Tech and the Thorns, significant strides are being taken in the sports community, and this performance data position is just the beginning of a new era that combines analytics, equity, and empowerment in women's sports.