After five and a half years in Portland, defender Bill Tuiloma will be embarking on a different journey in MLS, this time with 2022 debutants Charlotte FC. The 27-year-old leaves the Rose City as one of the highest scoring defensive players in its MLS history, netting 14 goals with the Timbers and Timbers2 clubs over six seasons. Known for his defensive presence in the backline and tremendous free kick ability, the New Zealand international leaves his mark in Soccer City with two Western Conference championships, and the MLS is Back Tournament championship.
Tuiloma arrived to Portland with a wealth of knowledge at just 22 years of age, having played at the youth level in both New Zealand and France, and eventually developing professionally with French Ligue 1 giants Olympique de Marseille and a loan stint with French side RC Strasbourg. After four years in southeastern France, Bill was courted by the Timbers and made the move across the pond in July of 2017. Initially with Timbers 2, he was quickly brought up to the first team in 2018, making his debut against FC Dallas in March and participating sporadically in the team's MLS Cup run that season.
Hailed as a tremendous asset on the field, and a terrific individual off it, Bill Tuiloma might best be remembered for his goal of the year candidate volley at Toronto FC in April of 2019, as well as his thunderous free kick banger against rivals Seattle Sounders in May of 2021.
Thank you, Bill.
