Tom Poltl honored as 'Timbers Community Player of the Year'

PORTLAND, Ore.
— In recognition of his exemplary efforts in making a difference off the playing field this season, Portland Timbers midfielder Tom Poltl has been named the Timbers Community Player of the Year for the 2006 season.




Poltl, who joined the Timbers last season, most exemplified the goals of the Timbers Community Outreach Program this season, making a positive impact on community values by lending his time and energy to a number of causes and activities throughout the campaign.




"I’m very honored to receive this award,” Poltl said. “I am always happy to volunteer in a community that has always overwhelmingly supported this franchise through thick and thin."




This season, Poltl took part in the Timbers camps and clinics program, led team appearances at Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, made visits to area schools and the Muscular Dystrophy Association Telethon, and took part in several additional functions in the community, including a bowling fundraiser for Shriners Hospital.




“The Timbers organization prides itself on its extensive involvement in the community,” said John Cunningham, president of the USL First Division team. “Tom Poltl is a constant and significant contributor to the many different community programs we are involved with.”




A San Diego, Calif. native who played at UCLA, Poltl appeared in 22 of the Timbers’ 28 regular-season matches in 2006, where he amassed 1,247 minutes. For his two-year career with the Timbers, Poltl has compiled 2,807 minutes on the pitch while also scoring two goals and tallying an assist.




Former Timber Brian Winters was the recipient of the first-ever Timbers Community Player of the Year award in 2005.