A lot has happened since the last home match at Providence Park. The Yates Report was made public by USSF, which resulted in positive changes: Mike Golub and Gavin Wilkinson were removed from the club and Merritt Paulson stepped down as CEO. While we acknowledge that Merritt Paulson and Peregrine Sports continue as majority owners of PTFC, we also want to call attention to the significant changes that have occurred in less than three weeks. 

On October 3, the 107IST board, the Rose City Riveters steering committee and the Timbers Army steering committee issued the following statement: 

At this point and for the foreseeable future, the leadership of the 107IST, Timbers Army, and Rose City Riveters are suspending relations with the Portland Timbers and Thorns Football Club while the leadership team includes Merritt Paulson, Mike Golub, and Gavin Wilkinson. With playoffs approaching, yes, it means that game days might look different. It’s time to build a bonfire.

Last night (October 18), members of our leadership teams met to discuss how the recent club changes affect our position with the FO. Many questions remain about the future of the club, what the NWSL/NWSLPA investigation report will reveal, and how the club’s new leadership will approach additional changes needed in the organization. 

On top of all of these moving pieces, there is a playoff match this weekend at home. On Sunday, the Thorns take on the San Diego Wave at 2 p.m. at Providence Park. There are two rally events before the match that we want to be sure you are aware of:

• Saturday, Oct. 22, 4 p.m.: SCAN is hosting a rally on SW 18th and Morrison. More information can be found on their Facebook page. 

• Sunday, Oct. 23, 11:30 a.m.: The Rose City Riveters are hosting a rally on SW 20th near Yamhill. This event is to show enthusiasm and support for the players as they arrive at the stadium. Please note:

• • This is not a photo op or chance for signatures. We will be working to create distance between the rally and the players so they can focus on the task at hand — punching a ticket to the NWSL Championship. 
  • This is a positive event for the players. We will ask any anti-FO banners or signs to be taken down while the rally is happening. 

Yes, game days may look a little different — still. While we still need to navigate relationships today and prepare for what comes next, we are also individual supporters processing what has come to light. 

We are committed to advocating for positive change with our club. We are committed to supporting the players. We want to bring our community together. Please be patient as we all sort out how to do those things: We have not been here before.