On Tuesday, the Portland Timbers announced major details regarding their USL Pro team. Merritt Paulson and Gavin Wilkinson were on hand to announce Portland Timbers 2 to media members and fans.
T2 (as they are referred to) will play in the third division of American soccer, USL Pro. Timbers 2 are a direct affiliate to the Portland Timbers and will be a significant tool in giving reserve and academy players playing time to further develop their skills. The creation of T2 will bring Timbers players closer to home off loan from other USL Pro teams. In the 2014 season, the Timbers sent players on loan such as Jake Gleeson and Steven Evans to Sacramento FC, and also had players on loan at OC Blues and Arizona FC.
Gavin Wilkinson has stated that T2 will directly reflect the playing style and structure of the Portland Timbers that has been built under Caleb Porter. The team will kick off its first season in 2015. Currently, the Timbers have players on loan such as Jake Gleeson and Steven Evans with Sacramento FC.
T2 does not yet have a coach, but Gavin Wilkinson has announced that they are close to signing a coach who is "well known in this country for winning." He also hinted at an immediate rivalry, as the Seattle Sounders have made plans to announce a USL Pro team later today. T2 will play their home games at the University of Portland on Merlo Field. Tickets for T2 games will start at $8 and season tickets will be available.
More details, like the logo and a special members program "The 1975 Trust" can be found on www.timbers2.com.