Portland Timbers players come from a variety of countries and various parts of the United States. Different languages, different cultures. Timbers Roots takes a look at some of the origins of Portland players to learn more about where they came from before they were part of The Rose City.
This latest edition: Zarek Valentin. After being selected by Chivas USA with the fourth overall pick in the 2011 MLS SuperDraft, Valentin was an inaugural season player for the Montreal Impact before spending three years in Norway with FK Bodø/Glimt. In 2016, Valentin arrived Portland in where he’s made 29 appearances thus far.
What is the name of the first team you ever played on?
Red Raspberries
What position did you play?
Forward
What is the name of your hometown?
Lancaster, PA
Name one unique fact about where you came from.
It’s the Amish capital of the world
(Discover Lancaster)
Who inspires you?
My fiancée
What’s your favorite thing to do at home?
Hang out with my family
Who was your favorite sports hero growing up?
Allen Iverson
(Reuters)
What is your favorite home-cooked meal?
Mom’s Asian stir-fry
What is your favorite thing to do in Portland?
Try out the restaurants
