Portland Timbers Over 10,000 Season Tickets Sold?

In a recent article on EPSN entitled Looking ahead to 2011 for U.S. soccer, Jeff Carlisle has this to say concerning season ticket sales in Portland. We haven't heard much front the FO concerning sales lately, but I expect an update after New Years.

"MLS got it right with the league's expansion in Seattle and Philadelphia. Can that enthusiasm be duplicated in the Pacific Northwest? So far, the signs are positive. Already, both Portland and Vancouver have topped the 10,000 mark in season-ticket sales, and the proximity to Seattle should allow for some healthy rivalries to emerge."

Pitch Black Court Surface: Eclipse

I gave my designer (my pops) a few design elements I wanted to incorporate into the court. First of all I thought it would be cool to use the image of a solar eclipse as the center circle. The eclipse makes sense considering the name of my facility and it could serve as a striking image making the court memorable for players. I also wanted to mess around with the use of dashed lines resembling street lane markings. These are only mock-ups and I will continue to think of other options for the court. Let me know what you think of the eclipse theme.

The Monk: Mean Machine

Most people out there have probably never heard of this movie. Mean Machine is a 2001 British comedy that is an adaptation of the 1974 film The Longest Yard. Only in this instance the prisoners are playing soccer against the guards rather than American football. The movie stars Vinnie Jones as an ex-England captain that is locked up for assault on a couple police officers.

This is where he has the pleasure of meeting The Monk. Ever wonder what a psychopath killer who studied martial arts would look like in between the pipes? Look no further. The Monk is played by Jason Statham, and every scene of his is pure gold. Without him the movie wouldn't really be worth seeing. You should all find yourself a copy of this film to watch, but for your sake I tracked down some of The Monk's best moments from the film. I could watch the video of him dancing with the ball forever and it would still crack me up. Enjoy!

No One Should Have to Play Alone

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE

I hope you all have a wonderful time with your family and friends the next few days. I will have some great content for you after the holiday. While I'm over at my parents I will begin the design work on the Pitch Black t-shirts, so stay tuned for that. I also hope to have concept art of the court surface soon. I've got a design in my head and will leave it to my artist to get it drawn out. It will be a surface unlike anything you have seen before.

In other news I will be playing in a indoor soccer tournament the day after Christmas at SoccerPlex in Beaverton. I will try to take some video and pictures for you all to enjoy. Once again have a Happy Christmas and I will see you all very soon!

Nike Terra Humara: Coming Soon... Again

New colors of the Terra Humara are coming out Spring 2011. 15 years after the original release and these shoes are still getting new colorways. Very proud of you dad!

One of the Greatest US Soccer Ads

Help Name the Widmer Brothers Party Deck

Yesterday the Portland Timbers and Widmer Brothers Brewery announced a founding partnership for the 2011 season. The deal will give Widmer the exclusive rights to sell beer inside the stadium. In addition, they will have a new beer garden behind the south end seating. This new area will help populate this end of the stadium because there will only be 4 rows of fixed seating.

The featured drinks at PGE Park will include Hefeweizen, Drifter Pale Ale, Broken Halo IPA, Drop Top Amber Ale, and other seasonal beers.

Widmer is asking the Timber's fan base for help in naming the new 9,250 sq foot party deck. There are a list of options or you have the ability to submit your own name. Click on over to the Widmer Facebook page to vote.

Pack Your Bags! Road Trip to Colorado

March 19th, 2011

Portland Timbers Vs. Colorado Rapids

Who is in?

Black / Circuit Orange Superfly II

Nike is getting ready to release the black and circuit orange Superfly II. These boots are Pitch Black approved. It's simple and flashy at the same time. I was never a huge fan of the pink or purple Mercurial boots that came out in the past. What do you think of the boots?

Portland Timbers Billboards Continue

No Soccer in the House?

Commercial definitely reminds me of my current living situation. Every night my roommates and I are either trying to nutmeg each other, playing MUFF in the spare room, or competing in a hallway passing game. We have not broken anything major yet... but it is bound to happen eventually.

Nike Football Ads: Ninjas

No Gold Cup in Portland...Yet

The wait will be a little bit longer for all you Portlanders excited about the possibility of USA National team games. The venues for the upcoming 2011 Gold Cup were announced and the Portland is out of luck. For a full list of the locations to watch games click over to SoccerByIves. It's bound to happen eventually, but I think the US soccer federation will wait to see the response the Timbers have in their inaugural season before gifting our city a fixture.

Spider-Man in Goal

Comedy Hour

Features of the New Timbers Jersey

Official: Portland Timbers Jet

A little less elaborate than the concept design I posted earlier... but tell me another MLS team that has a jet at all! I'll try to add some better images soon.

Portland Timbers 2011 Jersey Leaked?

We will find out in about one hour if the leaked images are real. If you want to see the leaked image of the short sleeve men's jersey click on over to OregonLive.

Some believe this could just be 1 of the 60 prototypes that were created in the design process. If you want to see a thumbnail of the women's shirt or the long sleeve click on over to Dropping Timber.

Man Utd + Vodka = Purity

Dreaming of a Portland Timbers Jet

Tomorrow the Portland Timbers will be holding a special event at the Portland Airport in the Horizon Hanger to unveil the 2011 MLS jersey. Fans are eagerly awaiting the release of the shirt design and the opening of the team store on Friday. I am equally excited about the possibility of a jet painted in Timbers colors being unveiled tomorrow. Here is a mock up done by my father using the old logo (obviously the newer logo will be used). Can you imagine going on trips to away fixtures with a select group of Timbers fans on this plane?

If I were in charge of the jersey/jet unveiling this would be my rundown of events:

1. Speech from Mr. Paulson about the state of the organization as we move towards the new year. Topics can include recent player signings, expansion draft recap, and a ticket sales update.
2. Then either a giant screen will open or a curtain will be pulled to unveil the new Timbers jet sitting directly ahead of the crowd.
3. Players will then walk off the plane and down the runway wearing the new jersey and team apparel. Fans will have the opportunity to snap photos with players in front of the new plane wearing their new jerseys purchased after the show.

No Pity: Portland Timbers MLS Commercial

New Spring 2011 Portland Timbers commercial has started airing on local television and the website has just released the ad for all to view. Commercial features the No Pity chant and makes use of the images recently used on the billboards around town. Let us know what you think of the ad.

Soccer House Hallway Game

Our Hallway Game is simple.

Each player stands on opposite sides of the hallway. One ball is used in the game. The aim of the game is to one touch pass the ball back to your opponent without the ball touching the walls. If you hit the ball against the wall the other player gets a point. It can be incredibly challenging to return a serve.

First player to score five points is the winner. You can score points whether you are serving or not. You have to win by two and we have a rule that you can't lose on your own serve. This allows you to be aggressive with your serve if you are about to lose the match.

We take all challengers. So come on over and get ready for some hallway action.

Beach Soccer in Hillsboro

Thanks to a tip from a coworker I came across White Sands Beach: Sports and Activity Center. It appears they may be the only indoor center in the area that offers year round beach soccer leagues. This is definitely a spot I will need to visit soon. Let me know if you have been there and tells us what you think of the facility.

Nike 5: Become the Master

1 v 1 Challenge: Round Two

I managed to turn the tables in round two. I threw an assortment of tricks at my opponent and he was left dazed. Be sure to check out the FoggMachine move (10 second mark), the nutmeg aka "through the wickets" (21 seconds), and the game winning shot from an impossible angle (26 seconds). This will go down in history as one of my greatest achievements in the game of soccer. I'd like to give thanks to my CTR 360s for giving me the total control I needed to make this possible!

1 v 1 Challenge: Round One

We went over to the soccer field nearby the house today for some 1 v 1 action. My roommate jumped out to the early lead with his quick cuts and step-overs. The aim of the game is to beat your man and hit a shoot into the side netting for a point. Check out the dynamic camera angle as I get left in the dust.

Jose Torres to Portland?

Could Torres be the center midfielder that Gavin and Spencer have been talking about? Trading Dax away seemed like a big mistake at first until they alluded to a player outside the states that would be the "perfect fit" in the center. Lets all hope that Torres is currently in talks with the Timbers.

NEW Timbers Team Store - Opening Soon

Found out today the Portland Timbers open their new team store in downtown Portland on December 10th at 10 AM. The jerseys are still set to be unveiled the 9th at PDX. The store will be located at 519 SW 6th Avenue.

Not positive, but I believe this may just be a temporary home for merchandise. The renovated park will feature a new fan shop open to the public adjacent to a viewing plaza. I have a feeling this downtown store will only be open until the start of the season in March, when the official team store is ready. Hope to see you there on Dec. 10th!

Qatar Wins 2022 World Cup

It's a sad day for US soccer fans. I was really looking forward to having the World Cup back in the United States. FIFA voted today and announced Qatar will be the first middle eastern country to host the event.

At least we will get to see the island stadium get built

Another Timbers Billboard Discovered

This might be my favorite

Portland Timbers Billboards

New billboards are popping up around downtown Portland. The FO has asked fans to post photos of the billboards on the team's Facebook page as they are discovered. I really like their use of real Timbers fans in these ads. I'm not sure I've ever seen the woman before, but I have seen the other guy at nearly every single Timbers function I have attended. He stands and chants for his team at every game, and he is the type of fan we need more of in the coming seasons. He is a true supporter of his club and I am glad he has been rewarded by the organization. What do you think of the new ads?

Bring the World Cup Back to the States

On Thursday FIFA will announce the homes of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. The United States is the front runner to host 2022 while Russia looks like the favorite to win the bid for 2018. Having the World Cup back in the US will be huge for the sport. The US soccer federation will have 11 years to prepare for the event and young players will have dreams of playing for the National team on home soil. I plan on visiting Brazil in 4 years for the 2014 cup, and to have a second opportunity to watch World Cup games in Seattle 8 years later would be another great life experience. Be sure to check the news on Thursday for the announcements!

Official Preseason SPL Rankings

After a series of preseason rankings matches over the past week, the commissioner of the SPL (Soccer Pong League) has prepared the rankings for the upcoming season. Players needed to play a minimum of 3 rankings matches to be considered. Regular season matches will commence in the coming weeks leading up to the inaugural knock-out tournament. These rankings are fact, and therefore non-negotiable.

1. Bryan: A fierce competitor with impeccable shooting form. He holds an unblemished record, but he has been known to extend his elbows past the 18 yard box. In the regular season the officials will need to clamp down on this tactic. Bryan was also the inventor of the 4-4-2, using the diamond midfield. This formation has revolutionized the way teams play in the SPL.
2. Joe: Often playing as Bryan's teammate, Joe has only lost a single match. He sits at #2 due to playing fewer rankings games. It may prove difficult for Joe to retain his high ranking in the coming weeks. Joe has been known to show the Situation in hopes of distracting his opponents.
3. Drew: Came into the weekend as an unknown. Served as a key contributor for every team he played for. His behind the back trick shots could use work.
4. Ross: Had a few solid performances over the weekend. Tallest player in the field allows for an unparalleled arching shot.
5. Fogg: An unconventional player. Perhaps one of the deadliest shooters in the field, but is known for tipping over his defenders during play. He also takes naps against the back wall demonstrating a lack of desire. Fogg is the only player in SPL history to hit a behind the back shot in regulation, and he played Bryan to a double OT thriller.
6. Juan: Shows plenty of heart on the pitch, but he has yet to find his stroke. Often relies on the bounce shot to get his points. This usually requires bush league tactics to distract the other team.

Bryan's 4-4-2. Has become the formation of choice.

Standard 4-4-2

3-5-2

3-4-3. With 2 withdrawn forwards.

New Timbers Billboard in Downtown

I hope the Front Office got the approval from the Timbers Army before running with this billboard. Definitely a piece of advertising aimed at the hardcore crowd that have probably already bought tickets. Most new ticket buyers won't understand this is related to the Timbers unless they have seen one of the No Pity scarves designed by the Army.

Barcelona vs. Real Madrid = MESSI x RONALDO

Most anticipated match of the year is tomorrow. Who puts on a better display? I'll put my money on Messi and Barcelona.

2010 Colorado Rapids Signed Jersey

My roommates are close friends with Ross Schunk who played for the Colorado Rapids this season during their championship run. He brought home a signed jersey by all the players after winning the cup. We are hoping to get it framed and hung in the trophy room of our house. I love watching the Conor Casey-Omar Cummings striker tandem, and it's pretty cool to have a jersey signed by both guys sitting on our table. Looking forward to March 2011, when we can start watching MLS games here in Portland. I will look forward to the first Timbers - Rapids match-up!

Dempsey Scores for Fulham

Watch as Dempsey rises above the crowd to nod home the equalizer. He has now poured in 5 goals in league play this season. Anyone want to take a guess at how many he will have at the end of the year? I'll go with 9 goals in league play.

March 26: USA vs. Argentina in Seattle?

Rumor has it ESPN Deportes is confirming an upcoming friendly between the United States and Argentina to be played at Qwest Field in Seattle on March 26th.

Who is up for a road trip?

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Nike Brazil CBF Black Pack N98 Jacket

Only $21. Normally $150. Thank You Nike.

Nathan Sturgis Traded to Toronto FC

The trading madness continues. Vancouver has just dealt Nathan Sturgis to Toronto FC in exchange for their 8th overall pick in the 2011 draft. Now Vancouver has the number 1 and 8 picks overall. They must have another player they are eyeing in the first round that they deem more valuable. I thought Nathan was one of the better expansion draft picks yesterday, but it seems even he is not safe from being used as bait. This leaves the Whitecaps with 5 players left from yesterday. At this point none of these players should feel secure.

Expansion Draft Becomes Trading Frenzy

Following the 2010 expansion draft a flurry of trades took place as Portland and Vancouver attempted to offload their new players for college draft picks, allocation dollars, and international roster spots. It has become evident that neither team really had that many players they absolutely needed from this draft. It was simply a way to steal players from other squads and see how much they would be willing to pay to get them back. Here is a rundown of all the trades that have taken place so far.

1. Portland deals Dax McCarty and allocation money to DC United for Rodney Wallace and a 4th round draft pick.
2. Portland trades Anthony Wallace back to Colorado for allocation money.
3. Portland trades Arturo Alvarez to Real Salt Lake for a 2nd round pick in the 2011 draft.
4. Vancouver sends Sanna Nyassi to Colorado for an international roster slot.
5. Vancouver trades O'brian White to Seattle for allocation money.
6. Vancouver deals Alejandro Moreno and Alan Gordon to Chivas USA for allocation money.

It was an exciting yet worrisome day to be a fan of the Timbers. Very disappointed to see Dax only spend a couple hours as a Timber. Apparently they Timbers staff has an ace up their sleeve in a center midfielder overseas that "is perfect for the job." Hopefully we will get some confirmation soon.

Pitch Black: Rule the Court

Visit any pick-up game out there whether it's soccer or any other sport and the reward for winning is generally the same. Winner Stays on the Court. Owning the court can be difficult. With every game you grow weary and your opponents remain fresh. Their ultimate goal is knock your squad off the pedestal and claim the court for themselves. That extra incentive to beat the champions fuels competition and builds rivalries.

At Pitch Black I want to make sure everyone remembers the past champion. I have already explained my idea for the Mural of Champions. My Rule the Court idea further rewards the squad that reigns supreme after each season. I want to brand the court in the winning team's logo for the duration of the following season. This way teams playing at Pitch Black have that added incentive to take out the champs. Below is an example of a signpost that could be hung at the court showcasing the the club badge/crest. Other possibilities could be flags, wall banners, or the center circle being marked. I want the reigning champion to feel like they are playing on their home court every week until they are beaten. Every match will be competitive for them with each team looking to stamp their name on the court.

As always please let me know what you think of this idea. Of course it is a challenge, and it will cost a little more money, but it adds to the environment I want to feature at Pitch Black.

Steven Gerrard Mini

On our way home from Best Buy and we spot this car cruising through LO. Mini cooper features the Liverpool red with Gerrard's number 8 on the side doors. STVIE G license plate along with photos of the Liverpool captain featured along the back bumper. They even showed the Timbers some love with a decal on the back. I need to meet these people!

Portland Timbers Beer Pong Table

I got further proof yesterday that I have some awesome roommates. I get home last night right in time for our MLS Cup viewing party and they have this little gift waiting for me. The guys spent all night on Saturday getting this table ready. Pretty sweet addition to the soccer house! Let me know if you want to come have a game. House rules say your cup formation has to line up in your favorite soccer formation (3-4-3 didn't work so well for me in the inaugural match).

Arsene Wenger Backs Colorado Rapids

I am definitely pulling for Colorado. When you live with a couple friends that grew up with one of the Rapids players you have to root for him. I have always believed in the two headed monster up top with Casey and Cummings. I think the FC Dallas back line will have a hard time handling these two players.

FINAL PREDICTION

Colorado 2 - FC Dallas 0

Foggy Freestyle Volume IV

Swung by Tursi's Soccer in Lake Oswego yesterday and picked up a Futsal ball made by Calle. Obviously the first thing we did was film a couple freestyle sessions. Footy Guru nearly gets run down by some passing cars while I put on a demo for the shoppers at Albertsons.

Pitch Black Mural of Champions

Teams want to be remembered for their achievements. Players want to be able to show their friends and family that they were the best squad on the field. It's the reason why after every championship game the winning team typically lines up in front of the goal and a photo is taken with the trophy. Sometimes photos are even taken by the indoor complex for publishing on the website or for posting on the walls. The winning team is able to take pride in themselves while opposing teams view the photo as a challenge to knock the previous champion out.

With Pitch Black I want to take this idea to the next level. The teams who play at Pitch Black will help create the history of my court. For now I will call this idea the Mural of Champions. When a team wins the premier division their team name, badge, or slogan will be illustrated on the wall. The art will be done in a graffiti style and clubs will have to receive approval for the message or team crest that is displayed. Having a permanent display of past champions wrapping around the pitch will add to the facility's atmosphere. The art will tell a detailed story of past champions, ongoing dynasties, and miraculous upsets. It will give teams a chance to express their creativity and become a part of Pitch Black history. The mural pictured above is from the Montalban Theatre, painted for a Nike event prior to the World Cup. I have also taken inspiration from other mural designs pictured here.

Please let me know what you think of this idea. It may be a daunting endeavor, but I feel that it could become a key landmark for Portland area footballers. Earning a mark on the wall could become every young players ultimate goal.