Portland Hearts Of Pine Release "Bandit Kit"
Portland produces another beautiful jersey.
It’s only natural that the Portland Hearts of Pine released their “Bandit Kit” during the week of Valentine’s Day.
The jersey pays homage to the Valentine Bandit, who has hung hundreds of red hearts throughout Portland on February 13th. The tradition, which has lasted nearly five decades, is all about community love and kindness.
“There’s something about seeing those hearts scattered across town - a quiet reassurance that, even in the cold and solitude, we are connected,” explained Hearts founder Gabe Hoffman-Johnson. “The Bandit Kit is a tribute to those unsung acts of kindness and the fabric of our community that make Maine so special. We hope it’s a reminder to cherish connections, spread love, celebrate the little things, and bring warmth and light to others, even in the darkest days.”
The white kit features red hearts, creating imagery similar to what is seen throughout Portland during snow season.
The jersey also takes design cues from Dutch club Heerenveen, who has had heart-shaped flower petals on their shirts, and the 2019 French Women’s National Team, who wore polka dots.
The sleeve sponsor is The Dempsey Center, which provides no-cost cancer care to patients and their loved ones.
"This Bandit Kit is a representation of our unwavering sense of togetherness and our love of Maine. It is truly special for the Dempsey Center to partner with Hearts of Pine as we celebrate community and spread the word about our mission to provide support for loved ones with cancer,” said Patrick Dempsey, founder of the Dempsey Center and actor.
The Bandit Kit is now available to purchase online at shop.heartsofpine.com.
Fans will be able to see the shirt in person at the Hearts’ retail store (65 Hanover Street, Portland) on Wednesday, February 12. The store opens at 11:00 AM and the first 100 people to purchase the jersey will receive a free "Bandit scarf.”
The store is open throughout the month of February, Wednesday through Sunday, from 11 am to 6 pm.