Portland Timbers Academy Tryouts 2027: How to Join, Coaches, Costs & MLS NEXT

Find Portland Timbers Academy Coach Contacts

Does Portland Timbers Academy Have Tryouts in 2027?

Portland Timbers has a public tryout process for its Discovery Juniors program, but no confirmed 2027 open tryout dates for its U15, U16, or U18 Academy teams have been published.

This distinction is important.

Portland Timbers operates multiple youth development programs, and they do not all have the same recruitment process.

Portland Timbers Discovery Juniors Tryouts

The club held Discovery Juniors tryouts on August 22–23, 2026, for the 2026–27 season.

Registration is now closed.

The program targeted players born in 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018.

The club has not yet announced dates for the next Discovery Juniors tryout cycle.

Portland Timbers Discovery Seniors

Discovery Seniors is an invitation-only development program for competitive U13 and U14 players.

The club identifies prospects through scouting, local club matches, ODP events, Discovery Juniors, and recommendations from youth coaches.

Portland Timbers U15, U16, and U18 Academy

The MLS NEXT Academy teams use the club's player-identification and recruitment structure.

A public 2027 open tryout for these age groups has not been confirmed.

Players should not assume that registering for Discovery Juniors automatically provides an Academy roster position.

Official Portland Timbers Discovery Program

Portland Timbers Academy Tryout Information

Club: Portland Timbers Academy

Parent Club: Portland Timbers

Professional League: Major League Soccer

Academy Competition: MLS NEXT

Location: Portland, Oregon

Academy Teams: U15, U16, U18

Discovery Juniors: Younger development and identification program

Discovery Seniors: U13 and U14 invitation-only program

2026–27 Discovery Juniors Tryouts: August 22–23, 2026

Discovery Juniors Registration: Closed

Confirmed Next Tryout Dates: Not announced

Academy Team Programming: Fully funded

Discovery Program Manager: Michael Jamieson

Academy Scouting Director: Kyle Steinbaugh

Official Academy Website: Portland Timbers Academy

How to Join Portland Timbers Academy in 2027

There are several possible pathways into the Portland Timbers Academy system.

The most appropriate route depends on the player's age, playing experience, location, and current competitive level.

Step 1: Identify Your Age Group

Portland Timbers currently operates U15, U16, and U18 MLS NEXT Academy teams.

Younger players may be eligible for the Discovery programs.

For the 2026–27 season, Discovery Juniors targeted players born between 2015 and 2018.

Discovery Seniors targets U13 and U14 players.

Age eligibility changes by season, so players should confirm the appropriate birth-year requirements before applying.

Step 2: Play Competitive Club Soccer

Portland Timbers Discovery is designed for competitive youth soccer players.

The club specifically states that Discovery Juniors is not a recreational soccer program.

Players should seek regular competitive matches, quality coaching, and opportunities to demonstrate their development.

Step 3: Get Identified Through Scouting

Portland Timbers scouts youth soccer competitions and development events.

The club's identification process includes:

• Local competitive club matches

• Discovery Juniors

• Discovery Seniors

• Olympic Development Program events

• Youth tournaments

• Club coach recommendations

• Timbers Alliance clubs

Step 4: Attend an Eligible Discovery Tryout

Younger players can monitor Discovery Juniors registration.

The most recently announced evaluation was held in August 2026.

The next dates have not been confirmed.

Step 5: Contact the Appropriate Academy Staff

Players and families can research the academy's coaching and scouting structure.

Relevant personnel include:

• Kyle Steinbaugh — Scouting Director

• Michael Jamieson — Discovery Program Manager

• Darren Back — U18 Head Coach

• Fernando Pessoa — U16 Head Coach

• Jodel Wright — U15 Head Coach

Step 6: Prepare a Player Profile

A strong player profile should include:

• Full name

• Date of birth

• Current club

• Primary position

• Secondary position

• Height, if relevant

• Recent playing experience

• Highlight video

• Full-match footage

• Parent or guardian contact information

Step 7: Follow Official Recruitment Instructions

A coach's email address is not a substitute for an official application or invitation.

Families should follow the club's established procedures.

Research Portland Timbers Academy Coaching Contacts

Portland Timbers Academy Coaching Staff

The Portland Timbers publish an official academy staff directory.

The following individuals are listed in the club's development structure.

Darren Back — U18 Head Coach

Darren Back leads Portland Timbers Academy's U18 team.

Back joined the Timbers Academy in 2019 as U17 Head Coach.

Before joining Portland, he worked with Philadelphia Union Academy from 2016 to 2019.

He also held academy coaching and youth program leadership positions with Houston Dynamo FC between 2013 and 2016.

Back holds USSF A and UEFA B coaching licenses.

His experience includes youth development environments at multiple MLS organizations.

Fernando Pessoa — U16 Head Coach

Fernando Pessoa is the Portland Timbers Academy U16 Head Coach.

He joined the organization in 2017.

Pessoa initially coached the Academy U13 team before becoming U15 Head Coach in 2019.

Under his leadership, the U15 team reached multiple playoff appearances and won the 2022 Generation adidas Cup.

Before Portland, Pessoa worked in Brazil, Ireland, and Qatar.

His previous experience also includes FC Barcelona Soccer School.

He holds a CBF/CONMEBOL Pro coaching license.

Jodel Wright — U15 Head Coach

Jodel Wright leads the Portland Timbers Academy U15 team.

His previous roles within the organization include:

• Regional Training Center Director

• U13 and U14 Boys ODP Head Coach

• U15 Academy Assistant Coach

• Discovery Program Manager

Before working in the Pacific Northwest, Wright led an NCAA Division II soccer program in New York.

He holds a USSF B coaching license.

Kyle Steinbaugh — Scouting Director & U18 Assistant Coach

Kyle Steinbaugh is one of the most relevant staff members for players researching the Academy's identification process.

His official title combines academy scouting leadership with coaching responsibilities for the U18 team.

Players should not assume that every scouting inquiry receives a response or evaluation.

Ryan Sierakowski — U18 & U16 Assistant Coach

Ryan Sierakowski supports the U18 and U16 Academy teams.

His role includes assisting with training and player development.

Garrett Loehr — Academy Goalkeeping Coach

Garrett Loehr is listed as the Academy Goalkeeping Coach.

Goalkeepers seeking Academy opportunities should prepare footage demonstrating shot-stopping, distribution, positioning, and communication.

Michael Jamieson — Discovery Program Manager

Michael Jamieson oversees the Portland Timbers Discovery programs.

His responsibilities include player registration, event operations, staffing, and youth development.

He also coaches the U13 and U14 Discovery age groups.

Jamieson joined the Timbers organization in 2023.

His previous experience includes FC Portland Soccer Academy and New York Red Bulls Academy.

He also worked with AS Roma and Liverpool FC before moving to the United States.

Jamieson holds USSF A and UEFA B coaching licenses.

Danny Mwanga — Assistant Discovery Program Manager & Coach

Danny Mwanga supports the Discovery program's coaching and development activities.

Additional Academy Staff

Blake Barnhart — Performance Specialist

Ezekiel Kyoore — Athletic Trainer

Bill Watts — Residency Manager

Mark Ulbricht — U15 & Discovery Program Athletic Trainer

These individuals support the academy's performance, medical, residency, and development operations.

Official Portland Timbers Academy Staff Directory

How to Contact Portland Timbers Academy Coaches

Players and families should identify the appropriate person based on their age group and recruitment needs.

Who Handles Portland Timbers Academy Scouting?

Kyle Steinbaugh is listed as the Academy Scouting Director.

His role is particularly relevant to understanding how the club identifies players.

Who Handles Portland Timbers Discovery?

Michael Jamieson manages the Discovery programs.

The club publicly lists the following email for Discovery program questions:

mjamieson@timbers.com

This is a verified program contact published by Portland Timbers.

It is not a guarantee of a trial invitation or Academy placement.

Who Coaches the U18 Academy?

Darren Back.

Who Coaches the U16 Academy?

Fernando Pessoa.

Who Coaches the U15 Academy?

Jodel Wright.

Where Can I Find Other Portland Timbers Academy Coach Emails?

The club's staff directory publishes names and titles but does not necessarily provide direct contact information for every coach.

Cancha Labs helps players research available coaching contacts across MLS academies.

Find Portland Timbers Academy Coach Emails

What Is Portland Timbers Discovery Juniors?

Discovery Juniors is a supplemental development and player-identification program for younger competitive soccer players.

It provides opportunities to train within the Portland Timbers development environment.

The program is intended to help players develop technical ability, decision-making, and understanding of the game.

It also allows Academy staff to identify prospects for future development programs.

What Ages Are Eligible?

For the 2026–27 season, the program targeted players born in:

• 2015

• 2016

• 2017

• 2018

These birth-year requirements should not automatically be applied to future seasons.

Where Does Discovery Juniors Train?

The club identifies three regional training areas.

North-East: North Portland, Gresham, and Vancouver.

South: Lake Oswego and Tigard.

West: Beaverton and Hillsboro.

Is Discovery Juniors the Same as Portland Timbers Academy?

No.

Discovery Juniors is a supplemental development and identification program.

The U15, U16, and U18 Academy teams are separate competitive MLS NEXT teams.

Does Joining Discovery Juniors Guarantee Academy Selection?

No.

Discovery Juniors can help players enter the development pathway, but Academy selection is not guaranteed.

What Is Portland Timbers Discovery Seniors?

Discovery Seniors is an invitation-only development program for U13 and U14 players.

The program is intended for competitive youth players who may be ready for a more advanced training environment.

How Are Discovery Seniors Players Selected?

The club identifies players through:

• Discovery Juniors

• Local club competitions

• ODP events

• Youth soccer scouting

• Club director recommendations

• Coach recommendations

Can Anyone Register for Discovery Seniors?

The club describes Discovery Seniors as invitation-only.

Players should not assume that it has the same public registration process as Discovery Juniors.

Who Manages Discovery Seniors?

Michael Jamieson oversees the Discovery program.

Does Discovery Seniors Lead to MLS NEXT?

It is designed to prepare talented young players for potential progression into the Timbers Academy.

However, participation does not guarantee selection.

How Much Does Portland Timbers Academy Cost?

Portland Timbers states that its U15, U16, and U18 Academy teams are fully funded for year-round programming.

This is an important distinction between the Academy and the Discovery programs.

Is Portland Timbers Academy Free?

The club states that its MLS NEXT Academy teams are fully funded.

Families should still confirm any individual travel, personal, or related expenses directly with the organization.

Does Discovery Juniors Cost Money?

Discovery Juniors is a separate supplemental program.

It may have registration, training, or equipment fees.

The official 2026–27 tryout information should be used to confirm the costs associated with that specific season.

Future pricing has not been confirmed.

Does Portland Timbers Pay Academy Players?

The Academy is a youth development program, not a standard professional employment arrangement.

Players who progress into professional contracts with Timbers2 or the first team may receive compensation under those agreements.

Does Portland Timbers Academy Offer Housing?

Yes. Portland Timbers operates an Academy Residency Program for selected players from outside the Portland metropolitan area.

The program allows eligible players to live in a team-home environment near the Academy training ground.

The goal is to help talented prospects continue their education and development while participating in the Academy.

Can Out-of-State Players Join Portland Timbers Academy?

Potentially.

The existence of the Residency Program shows that the club has a structure to support selected players who do not live in the Portland metro area.

However, residency placement is not guaranteed.

Does the Residency Program Cover Every Player?

No.

The club describes the program as a resource for selected Academy prospects.

Families should contact the organization for eligibility and availability.

Portland Timbers Academy Residency Program

Does Portland Timbers Academy Provide Education?

Yes.

The Academy collaborates with local schools and Baker Charter Schools to provide educational opportunities for selected players.

The club offers an on-site schooling option at the Timbers Training Center.

According to Portland Timbers, this educational opportunity is provided free of charge.

Classes combine in-person and online learning.

The arrangement helps players balance their education with training and potential participation in Timbers2 or first-team activities.

Portland Timbers Academy Education Program

What Is the Portland Timbers Alliance Club Program?

The Timbers Alliance connects selected youth soccer organizations with Portland Timbers development resources.

Its purpose includes player identification, coaching development, and creating opportunities for talented players to enter the Academy pathway.

Which Clubs Are Portland Timbers Alliance Members?

The club currently identifies three elite-level Alliance clubs.

Anchorage Youth Soccer Club — Alaska

Boise Timbers — Idaho

Eastside Timbers — Oregon

Can Alliance Players Join Portland Timbers Academy?

Potentially.

The Alliance program supports scouting, identification, and development.

However, playing for an Alliance club does not guarantee Academy selection.

Do Timbers Coaches Visit Alliance Clubs?

Yes.

The club states that its coaches participate in training sessions, identification events, camps, and coaching development activities with Alliance organizations.

Official Portland Timbers Alliance Clubs

Can Portland Timbers Academy Players Become Professionals?

Yes. Portland Timbers has a documented development pathway from its Academy into Timbers2 and the MLS first team.

The pathway generally includes:

Portland Timbers Academy → Portland Timbers2 → Portland Timbers First Team

Not every player follows the same sequence.

Some Academy players may receive first-team opportunities while still developing at youth level.

Others may progress through college soccer or different professional clubs.

Eric Izoita: From Portland Timbers Academy to MLS

Eric Izoita is a recent example of a Portland Timbers Academy player earning a professional first-team contract.

Izoita developed within the Timbers youth system and progressed through the Academy and Timbers2.

He helped the Academy's U15 team win the 2022 Generation adidas Cup.

He later competed for Timbers2 in MLS NEXT Pro.

When Did Eric Izoita Make His MLS Debut?

Izoita made his MLS debut on March 7, 2026, against Vancouver Whitecaps FC.

He started the match and scored Portland's goal.

At 18 years and 180 days old, he became the youngest goal scorer in Portland Timbers history.

Did Eric Izoita Sign an MLS Contract?

Yes.

Portland Timbers announced that Izoita signed an MLS first-team contract through the 2027–28 season, with options for additional seasons.

Why Is His Story Important?

Izoita demonstrates that the Academy-to-professional pathway is real.

He developed in the youth system, competed with Timbers2, and earned a first-team contract.

However, his progression does not mean every Academy player will become a professional.

Read Eric Izoita's Official MLS Signing Announcement

What Is Portland Timbers2?

Portland Timbers2, commonly called T2, is the organization's professional development team competing in MLS NEXT Pro.

The team provides a competitive environment for developing players, including Academy graduates and young professionals.

Is Timbers2 the Same as Portland Timbers Academy?

No.

Portland Timbers Academy operates youth teams in MLS NEXT.

Timbers2 competes in MLS NEXT Pro.

Can Academy Players Play for Timbers2?

Yes, when eligible and selected.

The club has documented multiple Academy players progressing into Timbers2 competition.

Does Timbers2 Help Players Reach MLS?

Potentially.

Timbers2 provides a development pathway toward the first team.

Eric Izoita is one recent example.

Can Players Contact Timbers2 Coaches?

Players can research the club's professional coaching and recruitment structure.

However, Timbers2 opportunities and Academy opportunities are not interchangeable.

Find Portland Timbers and Timbers2 Contacts

Can Players From Outside Oregon Join Portland Timbers Academy?

Potentially.

The Academy has a Residency Program designed to support selected players from outside the Portland metropolitan area.

Players should research the club's eligibility requirements and recruitment process.

Can Players From Washington Join?

Potentially.

Portland Timbers operates development activities in the Portland and Vancouver region.

Can Players From Idaho Join?

Potentially.

Boise Timbers is listed as a Timbers Alliance club.

Can Players From Alaska Join?

Potentially.

Anchorage Youth Soccer Club is listed as a Timbers Alliance club.

Can Players From California Join?

Potentially.

The Academy's Residency Program is designed for selected out-of-area players.

However, players should not assume that residency or recruitment is available to everyone.

Can International Players Join?

Potentially, subject to youth player registration, immigration, and applicable FIFA and U.S. Soccer regulations.

International transfers involving minors can be subject to significant restrictions.

Families should verify eligibility with the club before making travel or relocation plans.

How to Get Scouted by Portland Timbers Academy

Players seeking Academy opportunities should focus on competing consistently at an appropriate level.

1. Play Competitive Soccer

Participate in organized youth soccer with meaningful competition and qualified coaching.

2. Perform Consistently

One strong performance may attract attention, but consistent development and competitive performances are important.

3. Attend Appropriate Identification Events

Younger players should monitor Discovery Juniors tryouts.

Older players should understand the invitation-based scouting process.

4. Speak With Your Current Coach

Club coaches and directors may be able to provide recommendations or communicate with Academy scouting staff through appropriate channels.

5. Prepare Match Footage

Include clear video showing your position, decision-making, technical ability, and performance in real matches.

6. Research the Appropriate Staff

For Academy scouting, Kyle Steinbaugh is a relevant contact to research.

For Discovery programming, Michael Jamieson is the published program manager.

7. Follow Official Procedures

An unsolicited email does not guarantee an evaluation.

Players and families should respect the club's recruitment and safeguarding processes.

Portland Timbers Academy Trial Email Template

Subject: Portland Timbers Academy Player Evaluation Inquiry — [Birth Year] — [Current Club]

Hello Coach [Last Name],

My name is [Parent/Guardian Name], and I'm reaching out regarding my son, [Player Name], a [Birth Year] player currently competing for [Club Name].

He is interested in learning about potential Portland Timbers Academy evaluation opportunities.

His primary position is [Position], and his playing experience includes [Relevant Competition or Achievements].

I've included his player information below.

Player Name: [Name]

Birth Year: [Year]

Current Club: [Club]

Position: [Position]

Highlight Video: [Link]

Full Match: [Link]

Location: [City, State]

Would you be able to share the appropriate player identification process for his age group?

Thank you for your time.

[Parent/Guardian Name]

[Email]

[Phone]

This is a general inquiry template, not an official Portland Timbers Academy application.

For younger players, parents or guardians should manage outreach and follow the club's youth safeguarding procedures.

Portland Timbers Discovery Program Email Template

Subject: Portland Timbers Discovery Program Inquiry — [Birth Year]

Hello Michael,

My name is [Parent/Guardian Name], and I'm interested in learning more about the Portland Timbers Discovery program for my son, [Player Name].

He was born in [Birth Year] and currently plays for [Club Name] in [City, State].

Could you please let me know whether there are upcoming evaluations or the appropriate registration process for his age group?

Thank you for your time.

[Parent/Guardian Name]

[Email]

[Phone]

Published Discovery Program Contact: mjamieson@timbers.com

Portland Timbers Academy Tryouts 2027: Frequently Asked Questions

Does Portland Timbers Academy have open tryouts?

Portland Timbers offers public tryouts for Discovery Juniors. Its U15, U16, and U18 Academy teams use a broader player-identification process.

When are Portland Timbers Academy tryouts in 2027?

Confirmed new tryout dates have not been announced.

When were the 2026–27 Discovery Juniors tryouts?

August 22–23, 2026.

Is Discovery Juniors registration still open?

No. Registration for the 2026–27 tryouts is closed.

What ages does Portland Timbers Academy have?

The club currently fields U15, U16, and U18 MLS NEXT teams.

Does Portland Timbers have a U13 Academy team?

The club operates a U13 and U14 Discovery Seniors program, separate from its U15, U16, and U18 Academy teams.

Is Discovery Seniors invitation-only?

Yes.

Is Portland Timbers Academy free?

The club states that its U15, U16, and U18 Academy programming is fully funded.

Is Discovery Juniors free?

Discovery Juniors is a separate supplemental program that may have participation fees.

Who is the Portland Timbers U18 Academy coach?

Darren Back.

Who is the Portland Timbers U16 Academy coach?

Fernando Pessoa.

Who is the Portland Timbers U15 Academy coach?

Jodel Wright.

Who is the Portland Timbers Academy Scouting Director?

Kyle Steinbaugh.

Who manages Portland Timbers Discovery?

Michael Jamieson.

What is Michael Jamieson's email?

mjamieson@timbers.com.

Who is the Academy goalkeeper coach?

Garrett Loehr.

Does Portland Timbers Academy compete in MLS NEXT?

Yes.

Does Portland Timbers Academy have a residency program?

Yes. The club operates a residency program for selected players from outside the Portland metropolitan area.

Can players from other states join?

Potentially, subject to recruitment and residency eligibility.

Can international players join?

Potentially, subject to applicable regulations and eligibility.

Does Portland Timbers Academy provide schooling?

Yes. The club offers an on-site educational program in collaboration with Baker Charter Schools.

Does Portland Timbers Academy have affiliate clubs?

Yes. Its Alliance includes Anchorage Youth Soccer Club, Boise Timbers, and Eastside Timbers.

Can Portland Timbers Academy players join Timbers2?

Yes, when eligible and selected.

Can Portland Timbers Academy players reach MLS?

Yes. Eric Izoita is a recent example of an Academy player earning an MLS first-team contract.

Is Portland Timbers Academy the same as Timbers2?

No. The Academy is a youth development program, while Timbers2 competes in MLS NEXT Pro.

Where can I find Portland Timbers Academy coach emails?

Cancha Labs helps users research available coaching and club contact information.

Does Cancha Labs guarantee Academy selection?

No. Cancha Labs provides contact research services and does not guarantee evaluations, roster positions, or professional contracts.

Find Portland Timbers Academy Coach Emails and Take the Next Step

Portland Timbers Academy offers a structured development pathway from youth soccer toward professional opportunities.

The club operates U15, U16, and U18 MLS NEXT Academy teams.

It also offers Discovery Juniors and Discovery Seniors programs designed to identify and develop younger players.

For selected prospects, the Academy provides fully funded programming, educational support, and residency opportunities.

The pathway extends into Timbers2 and the Portland Timbers first team.

Eric Izoita's progression from the Academy to an MLS contract demonstrates what can be possible for exceptional young players.

But getting into the Academy starts with understanding the recruitment process.

You need to know which program fits your age group.

You need to know how players are identified.

And you need to know who is responsible for coaching and scouting.

Cancha Labs helps players and families research available coaching emails, phone numbers, and club contacts across American soccer.

Instead of relying only on generic club websites, you can research the people involved in player development and recruitment.

Prepare your playing profile.

Collect strong match footage.

Understand the Academy pathway.

And pursue opportunities that fit your level.

Visit Portland Timbers Academy

Check Portland Timbers Discovery Tryouts

Find Portland Timbers Academy Coach Emails

Explore Soccer Coach Contacts Across the USA

Last reviewed: November 4, 2026. Academy age groups, coaching assignments, fees, registration requirements, and tryout dates may change. Cancha Labs is an independent soccer contact research service and is not affiliated with Portland Timbers, Major League Soccer, or MLS NEXT. No trial, Academy placement, or professional contract is guaranteed.