The Portland Pilots women's soccer program has a long tradition of sending players to the pros, and this year is no different as seven alums are currently playing in the NWSL. Six Pilots will be present at Providence Park in downtown Portland on Sunday when the Thorns host the Seattle Reign.
 
Seattle has been a popular landing spot for Portland graduates as eight women's soccer alums have played for the Reign in the past four years. Currently the Seattle roster features Megan Rapinoe, Keelin Winters, Elli Reed and Michelle Cruz.
 
"Playing in Seattle has been one of the most fulfilling experiences I've had," Cruz said. "To be with such a strong group of women who work so hard for their passion and have fun doing it is something that has been very inspirational to me. When we come to Portland, the rivalry always sparks a match under us. For the alumni of Portland, I think we all enjoy coming back to our college city. There's so many great memories in this city for myself that gets me excited for an away game unlike any other team in the NWSL."

The Reign have posted the league's top regular season record the past two seasons, advancing to the NWSL Finals both years.
 
The Thorns currently claim Christine Sinclair and Kendall Johnson. Sinclair has spent her entire NWSL career in Portland, while Johnson got her professional start playing for Sky Blue FC. Portland, which won the inaugural NWSL Championship in 2013, is unbeaten on the year, and they enter Sunday's derby with a 3-0-3 (12 points) record.
 
Amanda Frisbie is in her first season with two-time reigning champion FC Kansas City. Frisbie began her career in Seattle before moving on to Western New York. The left back has started three games for FCKC this season.
 
"I was really excited to get to move to KC in the offseason," said Frisbie. "It's been a great experience to play along side and learn from some of the best players in the country, like Becky Sauerbrunn. I love seeing Pilots representing within this league. It just shows what a great program UP is and I hope the tradition continues!"
 
Additionally, Sophie Schmidt, a Canadian National Team member who previously played in the NWSL, is currently with FFC Frankfurt in Germany.