PORTLAND, Ore. – The USL W League continues its rapid expansion into the Pacific Northwest with today's announcement of Portland Cherry Bombs FC, a fierce, independent women's soccer team that channels the city's riot grrrl legacy into pre-professional sports. The club will kick off its inaugural season in May 2026, bringing the same energy and community-first ethos that defined the sold-out success of Portland Bangers FC to women's soccer.

Founded by COLLiDE Sport, Cherry Bombs FC marks the organization's fourth team, joining the Portland Pickles (baseball), Portland Bangers FC (USL League Two), and Lake County Captains (Minor League Baseball) in a growing portfolio of teams that prioritize creativity, inclusion, and authentic community connection.

“We built the Cherry Bombs to embody everything that makes Portland electric, fearless creativity, unapologetic individuality, and the belief that sports can be a canvas for culture,” said Alan Miller, President of COLLiDE. “This team isn’t just joining the W League, it’s detonating a new era for women’s soccer in the Northwest.”

The Cherry Bombs name pays homage to The Runaways' 1976 anthem "Cherry Bomb" and the riot grrrl movement that defined 1990s Portland, where bands like Sleater-Kinney, Bikini Kill, and Bratmobile used music as a vehicle for empowerment and raw creativity. The team carries that same brash, unapologetic spirit into the soccer pitch.

“We’re thrilled to see the Cherry Bombs come to life, said Joel Nash, USL SVP of Youth and Pre-Professional Properties. "The brand embodies the passion, creativity and edge that reflects the mission of this team while honoring the trailblazers who came before it.”

Cherry Bombs FC is built on four core values: Radically Inclusive (welcoming fans and players from all backgrounds), Rooted in Community (supporting local artists and businesses), Creative Rebellion (embracing DIY ethos), and Player Empowerment (celebrating athletes as whole people on and off the field).

The team's debut will run from May through July 2026, with home venue and schedule details to be announced. Season ticket deposits are now available at www.cherrybombsfc.com.