HILLSBORO, Ore. (KATU) — For the first time, the Portland Thorns opened training to the media on Tuesday at the new Kaiser Permanente Performance Center, a first-of-its-kind dual-sport women’s performance facility that will serve as the future home of both the Thorns and the WNBA’s Portland Fire.
Defender Sam Hiatt said having a permanent home built specifically for the club is about much more than a new building.
“It’s so nice just having our own space,” Hiatt said. “If we want to switch fields or change our schedule, when it’s just ours, we can do that. The quality of the field is amazing, and everything around it is beautiful.”
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Hiatt emphasized the Thorns always felt supported in Portland, but said the new facility represents another step forward for women’s professional sports.
“We were very well taken care of already,” she said. “But having our own space helps us continue to reach the goals we’re striving for as a club.”
The center features natural grass training fields, something Hiatt believes can make a significant difference for players.
“I think grass is the best,” she said. “You can feel the difference in your body and your joints. Long term, it would be great if we could all be playing on grass.”
The Thorns will also share the facility with the Portland Fire. Hiatt said the partnership creates a unique opportunity while still giving each team its own dedicated spaces.
“I think it raises the quality of the whole building,” she said. “It can become a facility that sets the standard for both leagues.”
The ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, Aug. 22, will mark a historic milestone not only for Portland, but for women’s sports nationwide.