A model wears the new Clive Charles vintage third kit to honor the former Timbers player. Photo: Portland Timbers
The Portland Timbers and Adidas designed a new vintage jersey to honor local soccer legend Clive Charles.
Why it matters: Charles is in the DNA of soccer in Portland, having played in the North American Soccer League from 1978-81 for the Timbers.
Flashback: Before moving to the Timbers — a fun, summer league experience for aging British players in the 1970s — Charles played for West Ham United in London in the English First Division.
Charles was one of the few Black players in that English league and he endured a torrent of racist abuse from crowds.
Charles made his mark in the U.S. as an assistant coach for the USMNT in the 1998 World Cup and as men's head coach at the 2000 Summer Olympics.
He also was the head coach for the University of Portland men's team from 1986 — and the women's Pilots from 1989 — until his death in 2003.
What we're watching: The jersey debuts Saturday, as a third kit, during an away game against LA Galaxy at Dignity Health Sports Park.
