When people think of major sports hubs in the United States, places like Boston, New York, or Los Angeles come to mind. Maine, on the other hand, might not immediately be thought of as a sports state, but the reality is quite the opposite. Maine has a rich and exciting sports scene, with professional teams, college athletics, and thriving local leagues that provide fans and athletes alike with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the game. Whether you love hockey, baseball, basketball, soccer, or even “old guy hockey” as I like to call it, Maine has something for you. If you're considering making Maine your home, the sports culture here is just another reason to get excited about moving to the Pine Tree State.Professional Sports in MaineDespite its small size, Maine is home to several professional sports teams, each bringing exciting competition and passionate fan bases to the state. The Maine Mariners, a professional hockey team in the ECHL, serve as an affiliate of the Boston Bruins and play their home games at the Cross Insurance Arena in Portland. The Mariners have developed a strong following, offering an affordable and thrilling hockey experience for fans who might not want to make the trip to Boston for NHL action. Every year, we host a special Maine Mariners event for our clients, creating a fun and exciting way to connect with the community and enjoy some high-quality hockey.Baseball fans in Maine rally behind the Portland Sea Dogs, the Double-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. Hadlock Field, where the Sea Dogs play, is considered one of the best minor league stadiums in the country, and it’s the perfect place to catch future MLB stars in action. With a family-friendly atmosphere, plenty of themed nights, and the beloved mascot, Slugger the Sea Dog, it’s no surprise that a day at Hadlock Field is a favorite activity for locals. In the past, we’ve hosted Portland Sea Dogs events as well, and it’s always a fantastic time.For basketball fans, the Maine Celtics, formerly known as the Maine Red Claws, represent the state in the NBA G League as an affiliate of the Boston Celtics. The team plays at the Portland Expo Center, providing an opportunity to watch up-and-coming NBA talent before they hit the big leagues. Attending a Maine Celtics game is a great way to experience fast-paced basketball action without the high costs of an NBA ticket.Perhaps the most exciting new addition to Maine’s sports scene is the Portland Hearts of Pine, a professional soccer team competing in USL League Two. This marks a huge milestone for Maine soccer, as it provides a stepping stone for future MLS players and gives local soccer fans a team of their own to support. The Hearts of Pine play their home games at Fitzpatrick Stadium in Portland, and with soccer’s growing popularity in the state, this team is set to build an exciting fanbase.College Athletics in MaineMaine’s college sports scene is just as lively as its professional leagues. The University of Maine Black Bears boast a Division I football program in the Coastal Athletic Association and have produced NFL players, including Baltimore Ravens fullback Pat Ricard. The school’s hockey program is even more legendary, with two NCAA national championships to its name. The Black Bears’ hockey games in Orono are some of the most electrifying sporting events in the state, with passionate fans creating an incredible atmosphere.Another noteworthy college sports rivalry exists between Bowdoin, Colby, and Bates, three historic Division III colleges in Maine. This rivalry has been alive for over a century, and fans of these schools take their athletic competitions seriously. Bowdoin College, in particular, has one of the most beautiful hockey rinks in New England, and their games bring in a dedicated following. If you’re looking for a tight-knit college sports community, these schools deliver an experience that is steeped in history and tradition.Local and Adult Leagues in MaineMaine isn’t just a great place to watch sports—it’s also an amazing place to play them. Soccer has exploded in popularity across the state, with local leagues like Seacoast United, GPS Maine, and the Portland Coed Soccer League offering adults of all skill levels a chance to get on the field. Whether you’re looking for competitive play or just a fun way to stay active, there’s a soccer league in Maine for you.For those who prefer ice over grass, hockey remains a staple of Maine’s sports culture. That’s where "old guy hockey" comes in—a term I use to describe the incredible adult hockey scene in the state. If you’re over 30 and still want to lace up your skates, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. Pickup games, beer leagues, and friendly tournaments are played regularly at venues like the Family Ice Center in Falmouth and Troubh Ice Arena in Portland. Playing hockey isn’t just about competition; it’s also about camaraderie, staying active, and ...
