MLS expansion franchise Portland Timbers have had a brand new training facility built for them on the verge of their debut season in the top flight.
The Timbers will call PGE Park their playing home for competitive matches but will train at a new multi-million dollar, 6,000-square foot venue in Beaverton.
Timbers owner Merritt Paulson said it was a great advancement for the club, especially as they can have access to their own grass pitch as well as an artificial pitch which will come in handy for their preparation.
"For us to be able to sign world class players, we must have world class facilities," Paulson said. "The majority of teams in (Major League Soccer) have practice facilities. It's a critical ingredient for us.
"To have an exclusive grass pitch is something that we need. We need that even at PGE (Park), but it can't be grass. We can't train on the same grass surface every single day.
"What we have signed on for continues and expands our commitment to the community and our community service," Paulson added. "It's definitely a very good thing for us and it's a win for Beaverton as well."