First Tech Federal Credit Union Sponsors New Portland Thorns Statistician Role

Unlocking opportunities for women's sports, engaging fans and sparking interest in STEM among young adults

PORTLAND, Ore. and HILLSBORO, Ore., July 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- 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. 

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SOURCE First Tech Federal Credit Union