2026 Dirigo Union Board Candidates
Please review all the below members who are running for the Dirigo Union Supporters Club Board.
Co-Chairs
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Incumbent
Donald Thibodeau
Tell the D.U. about yourself.
I had the incredible honor of serving as co-chair of Dirigo Union in its very first year, and it has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I can’t put into words what this club means to me or how amazing it has been to meet and connect with all of you. Thanks to the countless hands that helped shape Dirigo Union, we were named 2025 Supporters of the Year by Goal USA, an incredible achievement in our first year!
How would you improve the DU?
For me, year two is the most important year yet. The goal is to continue doing what has worked so far while improving in every area we can. Growing the Dirigo Union family, supporting our community, and creating the best atmosphere in American soccer, all while staying true to our mission, will be my main focus. I want to make sure we build on our successes, involve more fans, and make every game day unforgettable for everyone who comes out to support the Hearts!
What would you like to accomplish in 2026 for the DU in your role?
As co-chair for the 2026 season, my main goal is to set the Dirigo Union up for long-term success. We learned so much last year, and there are areas where we, as a supporters group, can grow and improve. My hope is to put in place processes, committees, and procedures that preserve the spirit of the Dirigo Union we all love while making it easier for future boards to succeed. I love this club, and I want it to thrive for years, so my kids and generations to come can enjoy it too
Anything else we should know?
It’s hard not to reflect on the past year while answering this question. I just want to say a huge THANK YOU to everyone for making last year incredible. I cannot wait for the 2026 season to kick off!
Quick pitch: If you want to get more involved with the Dirigo Union, now’s the time sign up for a committee!
Oh! and...
OUR HOME IS HERE!
AT FITZY PARK!
SO WE SAY UP!....
Incumbent
Mitchell Ketchen
Tell the D.U. about yourself.
My name is Mitchell Ketchen and I am a lifelong Mainer, born and raised in Winthrop. I unfortunately didn't catch the soccer bug until 2012, better late than never! I have my degree in Sports Business and enjoy quality time with friends, family and food.
How would you improve the DU?
I will improve the DU by continuing to bring my work ethic and passion for DU and Hearts of Pine front and center.
What would you like to accomplish in 2026 for the DU in your role?
In 2026, the obvious answer is repeating and expanding on the atmosphere we created at Fort Fitzy. Outside of matchday, I want to ensure that there are clearly defined paths of support to the board for member-led events, ideas and financial requests. Cleaning up committees and giving them the tools to be more independent, as well as having more committee leads included in our meetings with the club.
Anything else we should know?
Thank you for supporting Dirigo Union. It has been one of the highlights of my life being trusted as a leader and building this SG with you. Excited to see what 2026 has in store for us. UTFH!
Treasurer
Incumbent
Josh Ricker
Tell the D.U. about yourself.
My name is Josh Ricker and I am the incumbent Treasurer of the Dirigo Union (I have also helped lead the Match Day Experience Committee up to this point). I joined up with the DU when it was still just four of us trying to figure out how to make this thing happen. Safe to say, even my expectations were blown away. Outside of Hearts, I live in South Portland, work as the Brand Manager at Androscoggin Bank (yay B Corps!), am an avid Liverpool supporter, and am lucky enough to call the best capo in soccer my wife.
How would you improve the DU?
I would improve the DU—and the board—by bringing the experience I’ve gained over the past two years as Treasurer. Managing finances in 2024–25 was challenging when we had little sense of how much money we’d generate or spend. Now, we have a much clearer picture of our cash flow throughout the year: when funds might be tight, what our major expenses like tifos look like, and how much revenue to expect from things like scarf drops. That insight will help me guide the DU toward greater financial sustainability and independence, putting us in a position to consider more things like bus trips, storage solutions, events, and other opportunities for growth.
What would you like to accomplish in 2026 for the DU in your role?
In 2026, I’d like to formalize official accounting statements for the DU—including P&L, income, and cash flow statements—to strengthen transparency and structure. I also plan to implement a budgeting process that supports long-term sustainability and makes it easier for committees to organize, request line items, etc. Beyond that, I’ll continue ensuring our finances reflect our values—partnering with a bank that actively supports Maine’s communities—and, with two years of officer experience, offer guidance wherever it’s helpful.
Anything else we should know?
I am so proud of everything the Dirigo Union has created over the past two years. It has been the experience of a lifetime getting to meet so many people from so many backgrounds, all in the name of Hearts. Moreover, working on this board has been extremely fulfilling - it is one of the best, most professional groups I have ever been a part of. With that said, it is also a great amount of work - you have to want to be here, giving 150% at all times; that is how you get something truly magical. After reflection, I know I still have more to give. Year two will be critical in setting up the DU for long-term success, and I want to help ensure we’re not just a one-season wonder. To balance responsibilities with the board restructure, I stepped down as lead of the Match Day Committee to run for Treasurer. I believe Match Day experience thrives with fresh leadership and ideas, while Treasury requires time to fully understand how our finances work and fluctuate (banking interface, QuickBooks, cash flows, and more). I feel more than ready to continue streamlining our finances and guiding the DU toward real financial growth. As an employee of Androscoggin Bank, I’m also in a unique position to manage our finances—if something goes awry, I’m just one step from the solution. For example, last year during a merch drop, our account froze due to suspected fraud while processing dozens of t-shirt transactions. I had the issue resolved in minutes, with the hold lifted and transaction limits adjusted. Situations like this happen quickly, and I am well-positioned to respond effectively. Finally, my experience as an officer and committee leader adds to the expertise I bring to the board. I will always be part of this community, but in this position, I know I can help make it even better. Many thanks, and UTFH!
Matthew Civello
Tell the D.U. about yourself.
Howdy I’m Matt! Proud 119er and member of the Valentine’s Band. You may know me from my passionate cabasa playing or yelling things that make me laugh. In my professional life I work as a financial planner and investment advisor.
How would you improve the DU?
My aim in running for treasurer is to assist the board as the DU becomes more financially mature. This year has shown there is unprecedented support for our supporters group and it is now all of our jobs to ensure we manage those growing assets to make us sustainable for years to come. Our first budget is a major part of that, and I hope to be able to play a part.
What would you like to accomplish in 2026 for the DU in your role?
As the DU moves forward we must have tough conversations about how money is being spent. I am of the opinion that we are making a strategic mistake including t shirts automatically with every membership. I believe the $25 membership fee should be prioritized to go to tifos, flags, instruments and community events like away day tips and watch parties rather than the large cost (13k?) of a T shirt run. Its my hope to make common sense decisions like this to help achieve long term goals (DU clubhouse, etc)
Anything else we should know?
I also hope to continue to be an advocate for the Valentine’s Band, who are a large part of what makes the Zoo the best supporters section in all of US soccer. I would also continue to support the crucial work community engagement is doing to help vulnerable members of our community.
Secretary
Colin Durrant
Tell the D.U. about yourself.
I am a co-founder of the Dirigo Union and a lifelong fan of the game. One of the reasons I helped start the D.U. was because I was so excited about the prospects for a team to call our own and hoped to build a supporters group that would rival some of the best out there. As a current Board member I have tried to help guide the growth of our supporters group while staying true to our values. I hope I can continue to do the same in 2026.
How would you improve the DU?
Given the growth of our supporters group my goal would be to work with my fellow board members to ensure that we are implementing a strong organizational culture, governance, and processes that will effectively manage what we need to accomplish while taking advantage of the exciting opportunities available to us to continue building something awesome and fostering new leaders within our group.
What would you like to accomplish in 2026 for the DU in your role?
Beyond ensuring that the Board's decisions are transparent and clear through delivering on my responsibilities to manage agendas and minutes for Board meetings, I would seek to support and continually improve communications within and outside the supporters group, while supporting my fellow Board members and general memberships in efforts to improve the DU.
Anything else we should know?
It's been an honor to meet each and every one of you, either at a game or a practice or another DU event. The DU has exceeded my expectations and it's because of all of you amazing people and everything you bring to this community. I am wicked excited to continue the growth of D.U. and keep building such strong relationships with all of you.
Membership Coordinator
Incumbent
Justine Satterthwaite
Tell the D.U. about yourself.
I’ve been an active member of Dirigo Union since July 2024, and shortly after was elected to the board and handed the baton for Membership Coordinator. I joined the DU because I was looking for a community of my own and I found it in spades. I want to be able to share that joy and connection with as many people as possible. I try to approach each person and each event with enthusiasm and warmth. I want the excitement about the DU and our community to show in everything we put forward.
How would you improve the DU?
I would like to be involved in refining processes and bolstering support structures that we learned in 2025 that are needed. Year One was like building a plane at the same time you are trying to get airborne. Year Two is taking a look at what worked, what didn’t, and how do we build a sustainable, long-lasting group going forward. Development of more subgroups will help lighten the load and really strengthen the core of the Dirigo Union, and prevent burnout in this volunteer organization.
What would you like to accomplish in 2026 for the DU in your role?
In Membership, I would like to continue working on ideas of what outreach beyond the Greater Portland area looks like so we can engage with our DU members that are not always able to come to Portland. Exploring ideas regarding membership benefits and continuing to try to implement member ideas. Continue the development of membership subgroups that appeal to more offsite events, like the Tiny Tots Team (name in progress) that is focused on offering more kid-friendly events. I hope to also continue to engage our local community businesses with our events to maintain the relationships built in 2025.
Anything else we should know?
Outside of the soccer world, I’m a crafter, a baker, a lover of puns and comedy. I’m usually cruising around the state with my Labra-uahua (Labrador / Chihuahua), Izzy. Sometimes you can find us both at The Zoo. I work in Higher Education and it’s been very fun finding ways to connect my professional life into the soccer world. I love how interconnected Maine is.
I am happy to talk to anyone and everyone — I genuinely enjoy the 'people' side of our Union. If you’re looking for me when the season gets started, I’m easy to find: I’m always in Section 120 in the front row. Please don’t hesitate to stop by and say hello. You can also @ me in Discord. I’m always up for a chat, ideas on events, connections, you name it. And if you have anyone who is even remotely on the cusp of joining the DU and needs a little push, send them my way. I can help!
Community Engagement Coordinator
Aiyanna Maciel
Tell the D.U. about yourself.
I grew up in Raymond, Maine and after spending about a decade away I moved home in the summer of 2023. I am half-Brazilian and soccer has always been a part of my life, even when I wasn't super involved, and now love the energy and community created by the Hearts and the DU. My background is in nonprofits and community engagement, so joining the committee helped root my appreciation for the DU and feel more connected to Maine. I've loved seeing everyone's ideas for community opportunities, the passion for supporting neighbors, and I want to keep that moving forward.
How would you improve the DU?
I want to continue our commitment to communities in Maine and in the growing support in other locations. I’ll offer support for folks to lead community events for the causes that are the most important to them. We supported a variety of causes last year; this year, I want to expand those commitments and empower folks to build connection around things that matter to them. We've already had ideas for blood drives, our own soccer tournament, a Pride week, etc., and I'd love to mobilize more DU members to get involved so we can continue leading with our hearts.
What would you like to accomplish in 2026 for the DU in your role?
I will work with the committee, Board, and others on a multi-faceted approach to community events. As a member last year, it often fell on just 1-2 individuals to organize an entire event. We have the drive to help more individuals run events and mobilize more supporters; we just need an organizing force. With regular meetings and effort we can have a successful year that supports various nonprofits, community groups, and small/local businesses. I'd like to continue building relationships with organizations so we can honor our mission statement to inspire unity, camaraderie, and sportsmanship both on and off the pitch.
Anything else we should know?
Soccer is, and should be, for everyone. I want our group to reflect that, to live by our values as the DU, and to follow the lead of the club as they create a community-oriented culture. I'm really passionate about showing up for our neighbors when they need us, and wanting to include everyone in that effort. We all love this team, and we're all still learning how to show up as the best supporters group out there. I'm ready and open to work with everyone to create an organized, fun, and empowered approach to community engagement.
Kirk Jones
Tell the D.U. about yourself.
I'm Kirk Jones, a Scarborough resident and Salesforce admin/marketing automation consultant. My most important role is raising my two children, ages four and six. Through my work on my condo association board, I’ve learned how vital it is to ensure every community member is heard. With over 1,000 DU members, diverse perspectives are inevitable; I am committed to making sure every voice matters and that everyone feels represented.
How would you improve the DU?
I want to bridge the gap between the DU and our community with authentic, local initiatives. I'd start with a survey and ask everyone, where should the DU be, and why? Tell me how your answer lines up with our DU values. Once we receive answers, we'll divide and conquer. We'll come up with a strategic plan and ask for members' support to get these off the ground and follow through. The more support we have from our DU members, the further reach we'll have in the community and the bigger impact we'll make.
What would you like to accomplish in 2026 for the DU in your role?
In 2026, Dirigo Union will transform our supporter passion into a year-round engine for local good. As Community Engagement Coordinator, my primary goals are:
Deepening Impact: Launching “Cold Hands, Warm Hearts,” a winter clothing drive supporting local shelters and programs to keep Maine warm.
Inclusive Outreach: Partnering with Portland’s diverse neighborhoods and minority-led organizations to ensure everyone has a seat at the table and everyone feels supported and safe.
Strategic Partnerships: Formalizing alliances with local businesses to create a mutually beneficial ecosystem, including member discounts.
Anything else we should know?
I am driven by the belief that this supporter group is the heartbeat of Maine. My goal is to ensure that Dirigo Union isn't just known for the noise we make in the stands, but for the tangible difference we make across Maine. I am ready to leverage my local connections and organizational skills to make our group the most inclusive and community-focused organization in the league. We have something special here; let's continue to grow with intention and make an impact.
I also tell good dad jokes...
UP THE FUCKING HEARTS! <3
Matchday Coordinator
Sebastian Pettitt (aka Bass)
Tell the D.U. about yourself.
After spending the last year as an at-large member of the board, I'm excited to take my energy from being the "How can I help?" guy, to helping elevate our already amazing matchday experience! Away from DU & Hearts, I enjoy competitive bowling, gaming, and am the voice of Southern Maine Huskies sports!
How would you improve the DU?
I don't see as much a need for improvement as I do for organization and continued growth. My biggest point of emphasis will be making sure all the brilliant, creative people who do so much on matchday have the tools and resources to succeed, while making sure that everyone who has a solid idea gets a chance to either implement it, or have it heard within the larger group!
What would you like to accomplish in 2026 for the DU in your role?
My goal as matchday coordinator will be not only to help streamline everything we wish to do as a group, but to create an environment at Fitzy that our member base adores, and is one of the happiest parts of their lives every time they're in the stadium. Things like storage and transport of matchday related items, as well as being helpful to our band members who are treated like offenders at TSA at the stadium gates are at the forefront of my mind. Beyond this, I have good connections with the club itself, and look forward to bothering them on behalf of the people in this amazing group, and want to build that connection between club and supporters group, so that the person in this role next picks it up as amazing as they found it. (Thanks Josh <3)
Anything else we should know?
As of the time that I'm writing this, I've learned that nobody else has been nominated for this position. Obviously, I've gone ahead and put 2 & 2 together here and know what this means. Firstly, if you've taken the time to read this while knowing I'm the only option, thank you! Second, I'm taking this bit of extra time as the opportunity to get to work! If you have something on your mind in regard to our matchday atmosphere this season, I'm all ears. I'll be taking this election week to reach out to people who were on matchday committee last season, and start brainstorming for our coming away day, and potential US Open Cup match! Feel free to ping me on discord to chat, and UTFH!
Valentine Band Representative
Bill Sumner
Tell the D.U. about yourself.
Bill Sumner is a drummer with the Valentine Bandits where he plays alongside his daughter Grace and his wife Heather who plays trumpet. A native of Reading, Massachusetts, Bill graduated from Emerson College with a degree in Communications and settled in Portland where he worked in development and fundraising for a number of local non-profits. Bill lives just a stone’s throw from Fort Fitzy, and since 2015 he has enjoyed serving as the Lead Secretary for the East End Community School on Munjoy Hill - which is also home of the Portland Soccer Project!
How would you improve the DU?
After the success of last year, it’s hard to find aspects of the Dirigo Union that require improvement. That said, as a Bandit, I will seek to create more opportunities for the band to perform outside of matches to help spread the word across the state about both the Dirigo Union and the Hearts of Pine Soccer Club. I will also look to connect the new Board members with professionals who train such entities, helping them to determine areas that require improvement, and strengthening the foundation that was laid during the 2025 Inaugural season.
What would you like to accomplish in 2026 for the DU in your role?
As the liaison between the Board and the Bandits, my main objective will be to keep an open channel of communication between the musicians, the Board, and the Hearts of Pine Soccer Club so that all of our goals are aligned throughout the entire 2026 season. I will also support the Bandits’ new ‘Team of Captains’ in their various roles, help alleviate any challenges that may arise within the organization, and look to coordinate events that benefit our community where the Bandits and their fellow Dirigo Union members can join forces.
Anything else we should know?
Last winter, after nearly forty years of playing the drums, I was planning to hang up my sticks. I just couldn’t find the right sound or muster the energy to keep looking for a new group. But when a teacher at East End Community School mentioned that there was a band at the Hearts of Pine matches, it rekindled memories of my High School marching band, and my interest was piqued. After a quick email exchange with the Dirigo Union, I was in…and so was my wife and daughter. The Bandits graciously welcomed us and handed me a wooden bass drum that looked like it had survived the 20th Maine’s defense of Little Round Top. After one rehearsal, I was hooked!
It’s nearly impossible to believe the year that unfolded from that point. Aside the joyful fury of the weekly matches at Fitzy, and surreal moments like fist-bumping McDreamy in the middle of “Ten Dollar Bill,” we began to ‘spread the word’ through pop-up Bandit performances at the Beach 2 Beacon and Maine Marathons, the Portland Pride Parade, the Portland Zoo, Allagash Brewing, Thompson’s Point, and the State Theater.
So much for hanging up my drumsticks!
As a longtime resident of Portland, it was hard to imagine that there was room for something new in this old town, but the arrival of the Hearts of Pine Soccer Club proved me wrong. Walking into Fitzy the first time, it was jarring to experience the warm, joyful atmosphere that had magically descended on the field. Folks cheered us on for just carrying our instruments, before we had even played a note. It’s that exact feeling which the Dirigo Union recaptures each week - thanks to the help of countless volunteers!
From day one the Hearts of Pine Soccer Club and the Dirigo Union have both worked hard to connect with our community in ways that I have seen first-hand in my role at EECS. They facilitate neighborhood cleanups, run pick-up playground soccer games, and chose my school for the Portland Soccer Project - a pilot afterschool program where kids get to play soccer and learn leadership skills - building our next generation of fans while helping to raise good, compassionate kids.
I’m proud to be connected with such a noble organization and honored to have been chosen by the Valentine Bandits to represent them on the Dirigo Board. I’m also beyond excited to see where the Boys of Maine will take us during Season Two. UTFH!
At-large Board Member
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Incumbent
Molly Wolkin
Tell the D.U. about yourself.
Hello! I am the Lead Brewer at Bunker Brewing, a Brighton and Hove Albion supporter, Hearts FCOG, and an aspiring Biñho baller.
How would you improve the DU?
As a member-at-large, my aim is to support my fellow board members with any and all endeavors/projects that need extra attention. In addition, I’d like to take the initiative to create a more stream-lined, transparent process for handling conflict resolution, in an effort to keep everyone in this community accountable to each other.
What would you like to accomplish in 2026 for the DU in your role?
As I stated above, my goal is to create a more transparent process for handling conflict resolution. I envision a subcommittee that can objectively mediate conflicts before they escalate. This subcommittee would be responsible for appropriately documenting incidents, meeting with the affected parties, and working toward an acceptable resolution.
Anything else we should know?
I deeply love this community and each and every individual who has brought their knowledge, skillset, and personality to the table. I am beyond grateful that I have had the opportunity and privilege to spend this first INCREDIBLE season with all of you. We all make this community what it is, and I am so excited to see what we can build TOGETHER. UP DA FRIGGEN HEARTS! ❤️
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Shannon Adam
Tell the D.U. about yourself.
Hi, I’m Shannon! Many of you might recognize me as the bagpiper’s wife, but my roots in the game go way back. I played soccer up through high school and coached youth teams for several years. While I studied sports journalism at NC State, I currently spend my days in HR management for the USPS. When I’m not working or being a 'bonus mom' to two beautiful little humans, you’ll likely find me curled up with a good book (I hit my 100 book goal last year!).
How would you improve the DU?
My vision for the DU is not to reinvent our identity, but to amplify it. By building upon the solid groundwork we have already established, we can transform our current momentum into long term growth and deeper local impact. Focus on community engagement is important to me as well as continuing to curate an incredible game day experience that is inclusive and representative of who we are, what we stand for and our community love of all things Maine and soccer!
What would you like to accomplish in 2026 for the DU in your role?
With a background in HR management, experience organizing fundraisers, and strategic communication, I bring a go-getter mentality and high energy to everything I do. I’m looking to put those skills to work for the Dirigo Union. Whether it’s organizing events, streamlining our internal communications or driving membership growth, I’m certain my background can be a significant asset to the DU, and I’m ready to hit the ground running!
Anything else we should know?
Joining the Dirigo Union was easily the highlight of my past year. Building lasting friendships and cheering alongside all of you has been the privilege of a lifetime. I’m so excited to keep standing alongside this community and making more memories this season! UTFH!
If you vote for me, all your wildest dreams will come true.
John Tabor
Tell the D.U. about yourself.
The DU and the Hearts have provided a chance for me and my family to meet so many great people this last year. It shattered the high expectations I had. Match day has become such an important part of our lives and sharing it with all the friends I've made this year makes it that much more meaningful.
How would you improve the DU?
I'd like to push the the DU to have those uncomfortable conversations with the club. Both the Dirigo Union and the Hearts are about community and I feel like there is a disconnect currently. We either lead with our hearts all the time or we don't. I'd also try to make sure that members know about board activities and improve transparency.
What would you like to accomplish in 2026 for the DU in your role?
I'd have more members involved in helping the community outside of match day. If one more member of the DU goes out and gives back, helps provide mutual aid, or runs for a local position then I would consider that a win.
Anything else we should know?
We are in a unique position where once a week we become the focal point of Maine. We should be using that platform to push for meaningful change. Helping community and pushing for human rights is not a political position it's at the founding of the club and supporters group. We are a unified voice for 90 minutes and push the boys to punch above their weight imagine what we could do if unified for the rest of the time.
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Justin Morrill
Tell the D.U. about yourself.
I’m a proud member of the Dirigo Union, an avid supporter of the Hearts (along with my wonderful wife and parents), and I’ve had a lifelong passion for the game of soccer. When I’m not watching the Hearts or spending time with family, you can usually find me at a pitch. I coach high school soccer in the fall and stay actively involved with the team’s summer programming, working to continually build a close-knit community around our program. I want to bring that same drive and passion to the work of the Dirigo Union board.
How would you improve the DU?
I owe a lot of my skills—and my commitment to improving an established program—to my predecessor at Yarmouth, and I love being part of a close-knit community. I’d be excited to help the Dirigo Union continue to grow through outreach and involvement: supporting and sponsoring programming, giving back, and expanding access to a sport we all love.
What would you like to accomplish in 2026 for the DU in your role?
I want to be flexible and help in any way I can. I’m a jack-of-all-trades who can step in and assist in many areas where the Dirigo Union needs support (you don’t want me playing an instrument…). I want to make a real impact on what the Dirigo Union does for the community and find more ways to get involved in charitable work. The Hearts and the Dirigo Union are just getting started, and I’m excited about the opportunity to play a part in the group’s success.
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Travis Kroot
Tell the D.U. about yourself.
I’m a Portland-based supporter who shows up: vocally, consistently, and with purpose. I am a latecomer to the DU who cares deeply about our atmosphere, supporter culture, and ensuring the Hearts of Pine remain rooted in Local Pride. I was born "over there" - at Maine Med - and am all in on Portland and MAINE. I haven't been a substantial soccer fan as my identity until I found the Dirigo Union. I work in software development and am happy to use those skills to benefit the DU, starting with the Ticket Exchange.
How would you improve the DU?
Unapologetically building on truly incredible success. Not just quietly sticking with what works, but reinforcing and building upon it. I’d focus on three areas: access, infrastructure, and alignment. First, expand community access by strengthening the Ticket Exchange and thus our supporters' group engagement. Second, improve internal tooling and communication so our members spend less time coordinating logistics and more time doing their work: support & culture. Third, ensure the DU’s values, localism, anti-exploitation, and social responsibility. These are clearly reflected in actions, partnerships, and matchday presence. A supporters’ group must be loud, organized, principled, and welcoming.
What would you like to accomplish in 2026 for the DU in your role?
In 2026, I want the DU to continue to be the gold standard for supporter culture in lower-division soccer: unmistakably local, unapologetically vocal, and structurally sound. My goals include scaling the Ticket Exchange, improving matchday coordination, strengthening ties with local organizations, and ensuring social issues: partaking in volunteer days and working alongside the board, the SG, the matchday experience group, community engagement, and growing our membership! As a (maybe too much so) principally motivated human, I want the DU to grow forward, outward; reliably sticking to its core mission even if that means hard conversations and choices.
Anything else we should know?
I’m multifaceted by nature and by choice. I care deeply about the visceral joy of matchday. It's the cheering (and jeering), the pride in being the most powerful SG, the feeling that this is **ours**. But I also care about who gets to be there, who feels welcome, and who is excluded by cost, systemic resistance, silence.
That’s why I joined the DU Ticket Exchange group in 2025...at first it was a nice way to do my part. As I realized the massive effort the small group was doing to make this happen, I recognized I had the ability to make this better for the people supporting the Ticket Exchange and even moreso for those using it. It wasn’t just a technical project, even though it was initially an opportunity to explore my professional work in a new way. It was a fun software effort that coalesced into something of a values project. I wanted a way for tickets to circulate within the community, without the capitalist overlords of StubHub extracting value from our community who show up and stand up for the Boys of Maine. People give too much heart to throw away their precious cash on up-charges and exploitation. While I often am anchored in trying to solve problems, that same mindset leads to a lot of value add even if it takes me a moment to "get there". I like to build locally, design for fairness, and keep power close to the people.
I’m outspoken about social issues, including being strongly anti-ICE, because supporters’ groups don’t exist in a vacuum. Soccer culture has always been intertwined with resistance, solidarity, and community identity. Being LOCAL AND VOCAL means showing up not just when we’re winning, but when it matters. I wrote about the feeling that we sing "Oh Hearts of Pine Are Wonderful" when we get scored on...and as a pragmatic optimist I cannot imagine a more beautiful sentiment than that.
I know that passion needs structure to last. I want to help the DU grow responsibly: technically, culturally, and ethically. This is the future for later supporters to inherit something even stronger.
If elected, I will bring energy, clarity, and follow-through. Win, draw, and especially after our shared losses - in sport and in life.
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Jeffrey Peterson
Tell the D.U. about yourself.
I'm a soccer fanatic and having a club in our backyard has been incredible. I live in New Gloucester with my lovely wife, Laura, and our 2 boys. I travel the Northeast for work and make sure I'm back for every home game. The atmosphere is electric and it's clear something special is happening at Fitzpatrick.
How would you improve the DU?
What the Dirigo Union has started and is doing has been incredible and something other supporter's groups in the US should strive to do to support their clubs. The value I would hope to add would be in the form of helping develop the away game experience for the matches within driving distance to get more supporters to away games.
What would you like to accomplish in 2026 for the DU in your role?
To elaborate on my thoughts from the previous question, I would like to put together coach trips for our away games to make the away game experience feasible for more people.
Anything else we should know?
You can find out more about me on Instagram: @royalriverme UP THA HEARTS!!❤️🌲❤️🌲