Portland Timbers News Release - www.portlandtimbers.com

Thursday, January 4, 2006

PORTLAND, OR -- The Portland Timbers signed forward Chris Bagley to a two-year contract.

Bagley, 26, joins the Timbers after spending the previous three seasons with the Wilmington Hammerheads of the USL Second Division. While with the Hammerheads, Bagley netted 19 goals in 31 games (23 starts), including 10 strikes last season. For his effort, Bagley was named to the USL Second Division First Team following the season.

Prior to joining the Hammerheads, Bagley spent time with the Charleston Battery and Rochester Raging Rhinos of the USL First Division as well as the New England Revolution of Major League Soccer. He played in eight games on loan with Rochester late last season, including the semifinals. He played in 29 games with three goals for the Battery from 2003-04. He saw action in three games for the Revolution in 2003.

“We’re very excited to bring in Chris,” said Gavin Wilkinson, head coach and general manager of the Timbers. “He is a proven goal-scorer in the Second Division, and we think he can step up and score goals for us at this level as well.”

A four-year starter at Saint Anselm College before turning professional, Bagley was a two-time All-American with the Hawks and twice was voted Northeast 10 Player of the Year.

“Coming to Portland is a great opportunity for me,” said Bagley. “I’ve been part of championships at several levels, and I think I can come in here and help lead the Timbers to a title, too.

“Joining the Timbers is a great opportunity for me. I’ve never played in Portland, but my I’ve heard it’s the best place to play, and I can’t wait to play my home games there.”