PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Thorns FC today announced that the Thorns Academy will begin play in the Elite Clubs National League Girls (ECNL Girls), the top youth league for young women in America, starting with the 2020-21 season.
“We are committed to the Thorns Academy and believe entering into this partnership with the ECNL will be key in its growth and success,” said Gavin Wilkinson, general manager and president of soccer for Thorns FC. “The ECNL is a proven national competition platform that will give our players the best opportunity to reach their full potential as we strive to develop players for youth national teams, top college programs and the first team.