Maine’s Hearts Of Pine Original: Khalid Hersi

Lewiston native Khalid Hersi is the first Mainer to sign for the Hearts

Photo Courtesy of Portland Hearts of Pine

Lewiston native Khalid Hersi is the first Mainer to sign with Portland Hearts of Pine.

Hersi is a 20-year-old central defensive midfielder who recently played for Wanda United FC, an amateur club from the 4th Tier of U.S. Soccer. Hersi was a stout midfielder in 2024 earning him a spot on the UPSL team of the season.

The 20-year-old is also one of the 18 Maine residents that made it out of the local Mainer tryouts held on December 7 to make it to the professional combine. It was here that Hersi continued to shine amongst the 100 players from 14 different countries. Hersi snagged MVP honors in the combine, and just five days later Bobby Murphy would offer him a professional contract to play for Portland Hearts of Pine.

“This is an incredible honor,” Hersi said. “Being the first player from Maine to sign with Hearts of Pine means so much to me and my family. I’ve worked tirelessly for this moment, overcoming setbacks and staying focused on improving every single day. It’s a dream come true, not just for me, but for the entire community that has supported me.”