This weekend, Sat. 30th – Sun. 31st, the Timbers will put on an Invite-Only Tryout. In the past, this event has lead to the signing of former Timber players who’ve had significant contributions to the franchise. Recent players such as George Josten, Josh Cameron, and Brian Visser were all “discovered” at the invite-only tryout. Potential hopefuls will pay a $125 fee for the chance to make the team’s roster. A marginal cost to play in Soccer City USA. Here’s a link from Portlandtimbers.com with profiles on a few of the players that will be in attendance. One interesting note, Maxwell Griffin will be there, brother of former Timbers defender Leonard Griffin.

The 2010 roster so far? Well, along with returning coach Gavin Wilkinson, the Timbers will return much of its core talent. Officially signed for the 2010 season are Mandjou Keita, Ryan Pore, Cameron Knowles, and keeper Steve Cronin. MLS defensive talent Quavas Kirk also signed with the team a few weeks ago (apparently aka the Pink Pink). He’ll be helping to replace players like David Hayes and Cameron Dunn, players who we already know will not be returning. Kevin Forrest, Ivan Becerra, and backup keeper Brian Visser are among other players who’ll be left off the roster in 2010.

I also wanted to note that Alex Nimo is about to begin training camp with the defending MLS champions Real Salt Lake. It seems that RLS is expecting big things from their 2008 draft pick this year. We’ll see what he can do for them in the preseason, which should determine his future with the club for the rest of the year. It seems like playing time will be hard to come by. Real Salt Lake’s first exhibition game is scheduled for Feb. 20th. We’ll keep you posted as things start to shake out.