A closer look at the story, details behind the Timbers’ 2024 third kit
Legend.
It’s a weighty word, legend. These days, it’s used too easily, too often. But when you get down to talking about what a true legend is, it’s someone that has a presence. Clive Charles is a legend.
As part of adidas’ 2024 Archive Collection, The Clive Kit celebrates Clive Charles’ legacy and his impact on the Portland Timbers, our city and the game.
The Legend
Clive’s influence on the game can be felt from East London to the Rose City to the international stage. He was a trailblazer, a player, a coach, and a mentor.
Clive was a beloved player during the Timbers’ golden area of the NASL from 1978-81, as Portland cemented itself as Soccer City USA. He helped the Timbers to a pair of NASL playoff appearances and ranked among the club’s assist leaders of that era.
- From the Archives: Clive Charles: The Man who made Portland soccer grow tall | An oral history
But Clive’s impact in Portland stretched far beyond the pitch at Civic Stadium. He was instrumental in the grass roots development of the sport across the city and was dominant as a collegiate coach at the University of Portland. He molded, mentored some of the greats of a generation over his 16 years at UP – Cherundolo, Keller, Sinclair, Milbrett, and many others.
At the international level, Clive coached several U.S. national teams. He was an assistant coach for the men’s national team at the 1998 World Cup and led the men’s Olympic squad that placed fourth in 2000.
Back home in England, Clive helped break down walls. Early in his playing career at West Ham United, Clive – along with two other players – helped the club become the first Football League side to field three Black players in a Starting XI during a match in 1972.
- From West Ham: Clive Charles: True West Ham United Trailblazer
For his contributions to the Timbers, to Soccer City USA, and to the sport, Clive’s No. 3 was retired by the club shortly after his passing in 2003, and his name is displayed in the Timbers Ring of Honor. The No. 3 remains the only number retired by the Timbers.
The Colors
The color red symbolizes passion, love and desire – and is a popular color for roses. The Clive Kit features a victory crimson jersey, representing Clive’s passion for the game and his players, his influence on the City of Roses and impact at West Ham.
Shadow maroon piping down the side and adidas stripes across the shoulders help frame the jersey, with accents and elements in traditional club colors of Ponderosa and Bold Gold.
The Look & Crest
A vintage look inspired by Timbers kits of the late 1970s and early ‘80s, this jersey features thin striped trims around the neck and sleeves. Reminiscent of Timbers shirts worn by Clive, a Timbers script is displayed across the chest and the club’s Heritage logo is placed over the heart.
The Collection
The Clive Kit is part of adidas’ 2024 Archive Collection – the line of third kits for select MLS clubs. The Archive Collection draws on inspiration from the past to tell club stories and share the depth of soccer history across North America.
