the Academy Pathway
Discovery Juniors (U9–U12)
This entry-level stage focuses on building core skills and introducing players to structured development across multiple Portland-area locations. With tryouts held in August and costs ranging from $400–$600, Discovery Juniors serves as the starting point in the pathway, where players begin to be identified for advancement. Strong performance here can lead to opportunities in Discovery Seniors or RTC, both of which are key stepping stones toward eventual selection into the Timbers Academy.
Discovery Seniors (U13–U14)
Discovery Seniors represents a more competitive, invite-only progression from Discovery Juniors, held at the Timbers Training Facility with minimal cost. Players are selected through identification camps in March and August, and the program emphasizes higher-level training and evaluation. Success in this stage significantly increases visibility, often leading to involvement in RTC or ODP, and positions players directly on the radar for future consideration in the Timbers Academy.
ODP (U12–U17)
ODP provides players with state and regional competition opportunities through June tryouts, complementing the Timbers development pathway. While separate from the club structure, strong performances in ODP can enhance a player’s exposure and credibility, reinforcing their chances of being identified through RTC or Discovery programs. This added visibility can play an important role in strengthening a player’s pathway toward the Timbers Academy.
RTC (Regional Training Centers)
RTC acts as a critical bridge within the pathway, offering supplemental training and consistent evaluation for players identified through Discovery Juniors, Discovery Seniors, or even ODP. It provides direct access to Timbers coaching staff and serves as one of the primary identification platforms for Academy selection. Consistent participation and performance in RTC heavily influence a player’s chances of progressing into the Timbers Academy.
Timbers Academy (U15, U16, U18)
The Timbers Academy is the final and most competitive stage of the pathway, offering free, elite-level training at the Timbers Training Facility. Players are typically selected from RTC and Discovery programs, with additional consideration given to those who stand out in ODP. Each earlier stage in the pathway plays a role in development, exposure, and evaluation, making progression through these programs a key factor in earning a place in the Academy.