Earlier this week, former Timbers midfielder
Andrew Gregor
decided it was time to hang up the boots and retire from the game after 11 pro seasons. The Portland, Ore., native’s accomplished career included three seasons with his hometown club.
A home-grown talent, Gregor was a standout at Portland’s Sunset High School and the University of Portland before starting his professional career in 1998 with Major League Soccer’s Columbus Crew. Reflecting back on his career it was the years in the Northwest that stood out, and he was part of a special Timbers team back in 2007.
“The team we had in 2007 was a good team,” said Gregor, who captained that squad. “We had a good group of guys and we had a good time. Ultimately, we were successful; one of the most successful Timbers teams of the modern era … It was a special group of guys.”
Gregor first joined the Timbers midway through the 2004 season, and helped the club claim the USL First Division’s regular-season title. He then returned in 2007, leading Portland to its first-ever USL First Division semifinals appearance and finished that season as the team’s leading scorer. In total, Gregor played in 50 games as a member of the Timbers and currently ranks among modern-franchise career leaders with 28 points and eight assists.
A four-time USL First Division all-league selection, Gregor’s career in the Northwest also included a USL championship in 2005 with the Seattle Sounders – the Timbers arch rival. Getting to experience the twists and turns of playing on both sides of a rivalry is something that will always be memorable for both he and fans alike.
“The Northwest was a special place for my career, not just because it was so close to home,” said Gregor. “But being a part of the Portland-Seattle rivalry was special. I have a lot of reasons for why I played for both teams, and the experience of playing on both sides of the rivalry certainly added to my career. Both franchises have done right by me, and I have nothing but fond memories.”
Invested in the game for over 30 years, Gregor admits that getting away from soccer isn’t something that’s in the cards for life after his playing days.
“I am going to take time to compress the whole ‘retirement’ thing,” said Gregor. “I’ll see what direction things head in and see what options are available. I’m definitely going to stay in the game; it is something that I’ve spent my whole life doing.”
