In a blessed year, soccer clubs have too many memories to recount – moments, cast against each other, making it impossible to quickly describe a season. There are too many goals that stand out; too many milestones passed; too many victories that feel too important. Remarkable events lead to remarkable seasons, and in a number of ways, 2018 was a remarkable year for Portland soccer.
That extends beyond the Portland Timbers and Thorns FC families. The University of Portland’s soccer programs enjoyed standout seasons, with head coach Michelle Franch’s return to The Bluff marking an immediate turnaround for the women’s team, while Nick Carlin-Voigt’s progress with the men’s side cast the Pilots unbeaten well into their season, eventually claiming a victory at home in the NCAA tournament.