On this episode of Timbers Tally, I sat down with returning guest Jeff Sutton to talk about one of the most unique corners of Timbers culture: patches.
Jeff shares how he first fell in love with the Timbers after attending a 2013 match against Seattle, how Eugene’s Echo Squadron helped him stay connected from outside Portland, and how Patch Patrol became a creative home for supporters looking to tell their own stories through art.
The heart of the episode is Jeff’s story about designing a special patch connected to Timber Jim. Inspired by the Timbers Inn sign in Eugene, Jeff created a “Timber Jim” patch concept and reached out to Jim during a difficult time for his family. Timber Jim approved the design with one important request: make sure it said “Spread the Love.”
What began as a fundraiser for Timber Jim’s family became something even bigger. At Jim’s request, the money raised was redirected to Harper’s Playground, turning the patch into a small but powerful example of what makes this community special.
This conversation is about more than patches. It is about supporter creativity, trust, tradition, generosity, and the ongoing effort to preserve the stories that make soccer in Portland unlike anywhere else.
Whether you are deep into Patch Patrol or still wondering where everyone gets those battle jacket patches, this episode is a beautiful look at how Timbers supporters carry history, identity, and love with them.

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