The Boston Breakers were a professional team in the early years of the USFL. Known for their resilience, the Boston Breakers football team represented the city with pride. The USFL Boston Breakers began their journey in 1983, showcasing exciting talent and competitive play that made them one of the most recognized teams in the league’s short history.
Established
1983
City
Boston – New Orleans – Portland
League History
1983 – 1986, 2022 - Present / United States Football League
Team History
1985 / Portland Breakers
1984, 2022 - Present / New Orleans Breakers
1983 / Boston Breakers
Nickname
Breakers – The Boston Breakers are among the most successful sports teams in American history, having won multiple championships and produced some of the greatest players ever to grace a professional field. But few people know how they got their nickname.
Boston Breakers Origin
It all started with the United States Football League (USFL). The USFL was an upstart football league that sought to challenge the National Football League’s dominance in professional football during its three-year run from 1983-1985.
During this time, many cities were clamoring for a team to call their own, and Boston was no exception. In 1984, local businessman John Bassett brought pro football back to Massachusetts by purchasing a franchise for 3 million dollars and naming it “the Breakers” after his favorite sailing vessel – USS Constitution, aka “Old Ironsides,” which is also featured on Massachusetts state flag as well as on UMass's logo - mascot Sam The Minuteman!
It wasn't long before fans referred to them affectionately as "the Breaker Boys" or just plain old "Breaker Nation." This name had stuck with them through thick and thin seasons alike, even when they relocated from Foxboro Stadium in 1988 due to financial difficulties caused by Bassett's death earlier that year! Today we can still hear cheers echoing throughout Gillette Stadium every Sunday afternoon: Go, Breaker Boys!!
Championship
USFL Championship 0
Stadium
1985 / Civic Stadium
*New Orleans*
2022 - Present / Protective Stadium/Legion Field (Birmingham, Alabama)
1984 / Louisiana Superdome
*Boston*
1983 / Nickerson Field
Owner
2022 - Present / National Spring Football League Enterprises Co
1985 / Joseph Canizaro
1984 / Joseph Canizaro and Randy Vataha
1983 / George Matthews and Randy Vataha
- 1983
-
Breakers Team Formation
The team started out in 1983 as the Boston Breakers, owned by Boston businessman George Matthews and former New England Patriots wide receiver Randy Vataha. However, finding a stadium proved difficult. The largest stadium in the region was Schaefer Stadium in Foxborough, home of the Patriots. However, it was owned by the Sullivan family, owners of the Patriots and Matthews ...
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* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Boston Breakers History
The Boston Breakers were a professional American football team representing Greater Boston and a proud member of the United States Football League (USFL). Competing from 1983 to 1985, the Boston Breakers football team played their home games at Nickerson Field. They quickly built a passionate fan base and were remembered as one of the most spirited franchises in USFL history, known for their determination and competitiveness.
The USFL Boston Breakers joined the league as an expansion team for the 1983 season. The league, often called “the spring league,” aimed to provide fans with high-quality football outside the NFL season. Under head coach Dick Coury, the Boston Breakers football team brought together a talented roster that included quarterback Johnnie Walton and running back Richard Crump. Their chemistry on the field helped the Boston Breakers quickly become a competitive team in their first season.
In 1983, the Boston Breakers finished with an even record but displayed solid teamwork and steady improvement. Due to stadium and financial challenges, the franchise relocated to New Orleans in 1984, becoming the New Orleans Breakers, before moving again to Portland in 1985 as the Portland Breakers. Despite these moves, the identity and spirit of the USFL Boston Breakers remained rooted in their original Boston legacy.
During their time in the USFL, the Boston Breakers football team earned respect for their consistency and resilience. They faced tough competition from strong teams like the Baltimore Stars, Chicago Blitz, and Oakland Invaders, competing closely in several memorable matchups. The team’s commitment to strong defense and disciplined play earned them recognition even after the league ended following the 1985 season.
Breakers Achievements
Though the Boston Breakers never captured a championship, their efforts were noteworthy. The team was a symbol of the city’s football passion and contributed significantly to the USFL Boston Breakers legacy, which continues to be remembered by fans who witnessed their short but thrilling run.
Consistent Playoff Contention
The Boston Breakers football team remained competitive throughout their three-year existence. Their strong performances helped them stay relevant in a league filled with larger-market franchises. Competing against teams like the Baltimore Stars and Oakland Invaders, they earned praise for their strategic gameplay and balanced offense.
Memorable 1984 Season
During the 1984 campaign, the USFL Boston Breakers (then based in New Orleans) had one of their most memorable seasons, finishing with a winning record and narrowly missing the playoffs. This season highlighted the team’s perseverance and ability to compete against more established franchises.
Lasting Legacy in USFL History
Even after the USFL’s end, the Boston Breakers continue to be remembered as one of the league’s most iconic teams. Their journey across cities reflected the challenges of the young league but also showcased their dedication to the sport. The Boston Breakers football story remains a cherished part of USFL history and a reminder of the team’s enduring impact.
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Accomplishments
Averaged 12,817 fans (14,000 seat stadium)
*Blue is this team’s history