The Portland Timbers history reflects passion, resilience, and excellence in American soccer. Known for their loyal fans and talented Portland Timbers players, the team has become a key name in Portland Timbers soccer. From humble beginnings to major league triumphs, the Timbers have built a lasting legacy that continues to grow with every season.
Established
2009
City
Portland
League History
2011 – Present / Major League Soccer
Team History
2011 – Present / Portland Timbers
Nickname
Timbers – If you're a Portland Timbers fan, chances are you know that the team's nickname is "Timbers." But do you know where it came from?
Portland Timbers Origin
The origins of the Portland Timbers nickname can be traced back to 1975, when the original North American Soccer League (NASL) franchise was founded. At this time, there were many teams in various cities around North America, each with a unique name or identity. For example, New York Cosmos was known as “The Pele Team,” while Chicago Sting used “Stingers” as its moniker. When choosing a name for their new soccer club in Oregon, they decided on something more reflective of local culture – timber!
It made sense, considering that Oregon has long been known for its logging industry and forests full of tall trees, so naturally, they chose Timber as an appropriate symbol for their team. This also allowed them to create some fun logos and designs featuring lumberjacks with axes or chainsaws cutting down trees - perfect imagery for any sports fan interested in woodworking! Who doesn't love seeing those big red letters spelling out T-I-M-B-E-R? It stands out among other MLS teams' nicknames which makes us proud whenever we hear someone say our beloved Timbers!
Championship
MLS Cups 1
2015
Stadium
2011 - Present / Providence Park
Owner
2009 - Present / Merritt Paulson
- 2001
- 2009
- 2015
- 2017
- 2018
- 2020
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Timbers Team Formation
The announcement of the Timbers’ entry into MLS was the culmination of a nearly two-year-long process for Merritt Paulson, dating back at least to May 2007, when Paulson led a group that bought the Portland Beavers and the USL Timbers. The group included former Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson, Meritt Paulson’s father. The biggest issue for the city of Portland at ... -
Portland Timbers club won its second Commissioner’s Cup
In 2009: The Portland Timbers club won its second Commissioner’s Cup and set a U.S. soccer record with a 24-game unbeaten streak. The club also announced its bid to join Major League Soccer (MLS) as an expansion team, along with Vancouver Whitecaps FC and Montreal Impact -
2015 MLS Champs
MLS Cup 2015 was the 20th edition of the MLS Cup, the championship game of Major League Soccer (MLS). The match was to determine the champion of MLS’ 2015 season. The championship was contested on December 6, 2015, between the Columbus Crew SC and the Portland Timbers at MAPFRE Stadium in Columbus, Ohio, with the latter winning 2–1 and earning ... -
Portland Timbers finished first in the Western Conference
In 2017: The Portland Timbers club bounced back with a strong season, finishing first in the Western Conference for the second time. However, injuries plagued the team in the playoffs, and they lost to Houston Dynamo in the conference semifinals -
Portland Timbers Hired Giovanni Savarese as the new head coach
In 2018: The club underwent a major overhaul, hiring Giovanni Savarese as the new head coach and signing several new players. After a slow start, the club went on a 15-game unbeaten run and finished fifth in the Western Conference. The club also reached its second MLS Cup final, but lost to Atlanta United FC 2–0 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium -
Portland wins MLS is Back Tournament
In 2020: The Portland Timbers club won its second trophy, the MLS is Back Tournament, defeating Orlando City SC 2–1 in the final. The club also finished third in the Western Conference and qualified for the Champions League again. However, they lost to FC Dallas 8–7 on penalties in the first round of the playoffs
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Portland Timbers History
The Portland Timbers are among the most passionate and successful clubs in Major League Soccer. Founded in 2009, the team quickly built a strong reputation through its loyal supporters and iconic green-and-white kits. The portland timbers history stands out in portland timbers soccer for its blend of tradition, talent, and community spirit that continues to define the club today.
Since joining MLS, the Portland Timbers have consistently shown excellence on both local and national stages. Their 2015 season remains historic, as they secured their first MLS Cup title with a memorable victory over Columbus Crew SC. This achievement marked one of the defining moments in portland timbers history, proving their strength in portland timbers soccer and cementing their legacy among top American clubs.
In the following seasons, the Timbers continued to thrive. Their dedication to attacking play, combined with the skill of standout Portland timbers players, helped them lift the Cascadia Cup and compete regularly in playoff rounds. The 2017 season was particularly remarkable as the team captured the Western Conference title and reached the MLS Cup Final, solidifying their place as one of the most consistent teams in Portland timbers soccer.
Timbers Achievements
Throughout the years, iconic Portland timbers players such as Diego Valeri, Sebastián Blanco, and Diego Chará have played crucial roles in shaping the team’s success. Their leadership, creativity, and hard work have inspired generations of fans, making the Portland timbers history not just about trophies but also about the community’s connection to the game.
The club’s achievements go beyond titles. The Portland Timbers have built a culture of inclusivity and sportsmanship that makes portland timbers soccer unique in North America. They have represented the city proudly in international competitions, including the CONCACAF Champions League, showing that their ambition stretches far beyond domestic success.
Over the years, the Portland Timbers have become a symbol of passion and perseverance. Their growing legacy, fueled by the energy of devoted fans and talented portland timbers players, ensures that the portland timbers history continues to evolve as one of the most inspiring stories in Major League Soccer.
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