On a Friday night, women’s sports activists were present at a Portland Thorns National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) game. Clad in XX-XY Athletics T-shirts, they displayed a sign reading, “Save Women’s Sports.” Their actions were peaceful, acknowledging biological perspectives. This appearance sparked a tense confrontation with pro-transgender Thorns fans, resulting in hostile behavior, including striking attendees with a flagpole and verbal harassment. Security further exacerbated the situation by forcibly removing some activists from the event.
The aftermath painted a different picture of tolerance and acceptance. Following the match, the Thorns’ social media team shared a post praising their fans: “the 𝒂𝒃𝒔𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒕𝒆 best fans in all the land 🫶 thank you for the best atmosphere, support and energy tonight and all season long! we couldn’t do it without you!” This sparked criticism among “save women’s sports” supporters, who shared their discontent on social media.
Media commentator Dustin Grage remarked on social media, “Your fans are violent, and you cheered them on.” Journalist Andy Ngo added, “You permitted thugs to assault women and then had security oust the victims.” Another user, Charlotte Welcker, voiced similar sentiments, “Your fans assaulted a woman and then your security threw her out. DISGUSTING.” These statements reflect the strong backlash to the events of the night and the handling by the team.
Brandi Kruse, a reporter and “Save Women’s Sports” activist, recounted a specific incident involving her friend Julie. Julie, a 57-year-old woman, was pushed by a male fan, causing her to fall over two rows of seats. Despite an eventual apology from the fan, admitting he acted impulsively, Julie proceeded to file a police report.
Critics of the night’s events voiced a consistent theme: “Too bad you don’t support free speech,” one post read. Another stated, “I will never attend a game. You assaulted women wearing t-shirts representing science.” Many shared their disapproval, emphasizing the perceived violence and intolerance present.
Reporter Jackson Thompson noted that the night was intended as Fan Appreciation Night. However, many felt the Thorns should have predicted the consequences of the gathering, given the heightened tensions and sensitive themes involved. The incidents have led to discussions about the broader culture surrounding NWSL events and their management.