When Portland looks in the mirror, it sees more than just makers and craftspeople; it sees the forefront of the Global Sports Industry and the rising Epicenter of Women's Sports. It sees a city both firmly established and on the rise, defined by its relentless passion, creative grit, and a personality that welcomes everyone.

Portland’s unique zip code holds an unrivaled connection to the global sports market that few other cities can match. This concentration of power has created an innovation hub, as we are home to the locally-established giants that lead the industry: Nike (Global HQ), adidas (North American HQ), ON (U.S. HQ), and Columbia Sportswear (Global HQ), alongside an influential presence from Under Armour (Corporate Office). This density of industry leadership has cultivated a deep talent pool in design, technology, and performance, cementing Portland as the global hub for athletic and outdoor footwear and apparel innovation.

Our sporting spirit has transcended the competition, making Portland the gold standard for professional women's athletics. We are the home of the Portland Thorns FC (NWSL), one of the most successful women's sports franchises in the world, which consistently boasts record-setting attendance and a uniquely passionate, diverse, and loyal fanbase. Solidifying this status, Portland will soon welcome the Portland Fire, its new WNBA expansion team launching in 2026. Both franchises are united under a shared ownership group that is further cementing Portland's role by investing over $150 million in a first-of-its-kind, dual-sport Women's Performance Center designed specifically for elite female athletes. This community belief proves that in Portland, sports are truly for everyone.

This is a true Renaissance City, where the thriving arts, culinary, and outdoor scenes are uniquely intertwined with its athletes. We celebrate the well-rounded competitor, supporting figures like beloved Trail Blazers All-Star point guard, Damian Lillard, who is equally respected as a recording artist, or local Olympians whose ventures range from world-renowned dining partnerships to New York Times bestselling cookbooks. It's one of the few places where you can surf and ski in the same day, with spare time to grab a cup of coffee and show off your new sneakers—designed just a few miles away—before catching a game. When your event lands in Portland, it will be about the competition, the athletes, and the experience. Hosting in this city will be anything but typical, because we welcome every championship with our whole personality and our unparalleled sports heritage.&#x20;

Portland, powered by Sport Oregon

Get ready to bring the energy, excitement, and aloha spirit to Portland! The Aloha Spirit Championships are coming to the Oregon Convention Center, on January 9–10, 2027. Hosted by Varsity Spirit, this thrilling youth cheerleading championship is where teams shine, skills soar, and unforgettable memories are made.

Watch talented athletes take the floor with powerful routines, impressive stunts, and team spirit that inspires everyone. Whether you’re competing, supporting your favorite athletes, or cheering from the stands, this is an event you won’t want to miss!

Registration is available now—secure your team’s spot and get ready to celebrate passion, dedication, and the true spirit of cheerleading at the Aloha Spirit Championships!

Aloha Spirit Championships

Varsity All Star is made up of over 40 brands who foster and facilitate growth within the All Star community. Whether your team is looking to travel across the country or compete closer to home, we offer over 500 regional, national, and end-of-season events to fit the unique needs of every team. We look to host our events in everything from a Convention Center to High School arenas. We also love to work with the city to be involved to give a full experience to the clients.

Varsity Spirit

Cheerleading

Designed with a sustainable approach in mind, the Oregon Convention Center was the first of its kind to be LEED certified in 2004 and has racked up similar accolades since. As the largest event venue in the Pacific Northwest it is renowned for its architecture, where its twin spire towers and are a highlight of Portland’s Eastside skyline.

Among other features, the facility houses the Portland Ballroom, with 34,000 square feet of floor space, which can be divided into eight sections, as well as a 16,000-square-foot lobby. At large, the center offers 255,000 square feet of contiguous exhibit space with drive-in access from the street level available on three sides. A pair of luxurious VIP suites overlooking the exhibit halls can be rented out, while 52 meeting rooms, high-speed Internet connectivity throughout the building and more make this an excellent option for tournament planners seeking a gorgeous indoor building.

Aloha Spirit Championships

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