As part of our inaugural group of ticket holders, Mark and his son Connor won the chance to have a VIP experience for the Portland Timbers vs. Vancouver Whitecaps match, including KeyBank Club seats, and a chance to visit with Timber Joey on the field!
We asked Mark a few questions after the match.
What was your first memory of/first match supporting the Timbers?
"Showing up for the first home match vs Chicago Fire in the pouring rain. The electric feel of the stadium and the anticipation of what was to come. I think everyone knew MLS in Portland would be popular, but I am not sure anyone predicted the raving fans that have been created and the special atmosphere that is ever-present."
What was your favorite moment of the match tonight?
"Finding out that my friend Spencer Ruben was the “Hometown Hero” right before we had a chance to have our moment with Timber Joey. You could not pick a better guy and getting to see him there at the same time was great!"
Who would you nominate as Player of the Match?
"Always Diego Chara, nobody covers more ground and does more work to clean up any mistake that has been made by a teammate than Diego. He may not score the goals or rack up assists, but his contribution is always crucial."
What is your prediction for the next MLS match – Timbers at DC United?
"Duh, Timbers get 3 points. 2-0 win."
What else should we know about your Timbers fandom?
"The Timbers have always been my team to follow, from the NASL days on. After NASL folded, I was lucky enough to have Willie Anderson be the coach of my Hillsboro Soccer Club team when I was in high school. We were the worst team in the state the year prior and then he came in and led us to winning the Championship for our age group. It is amazing the lessons you learn from sports, and he taught me several. He had a big impact in a short amount of time.
Additionally, I was a goal scorer at one of the “Timber for a Day” events. I have the slice stained and treated and in my office at work. People always ask how I got it. My reply is always, “There is only one way to get one of those if you are not a goalkeeper.”
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Congratulations Mark and Connor! And thank you for your continued support!
