Posted on 22nd Feb 2012 @ 2:25 PM

Is it akin to the Rolling Stones allowing ‘Start Me Up’ to be used by Microsoft for a Windows rollout? That is to say, have some of the most spirited and freethinking supporters stooped to a sell-out?

That’s a question raised by the peers of Portland’s Timbers Army after they participated in some shtick on IFC’s Portlandia. This Friday’s show on IFC will feature a segment where the revolving characters played by stars Fred Amisen and Carrie Brownstein join the ranks of the TA.

Sounds like a hoot, and it seemed to be only a matter of time until this quirky comedy sketch show would deal with the Timbers’ most faithful following.

The spot should be fun and it’s heartening to know that at least 50 or so Timbers Army members were game for participating because that’s not always the case.

Supporters groups have done a great deal to add color, sound and atmosphere to MLS matches. They have the ability to give games much of the same look and feel of soccer’s longstanding hotbeds, like Europe and South America.  However, they can also be serious-minded.

Supporters groups, those in MLS included, have a reputation for being independent, non-conformist, non-commercial to the core.  Recently, when seeking to record some promotional audio, ESPN asked at least one group and received a chilly response.

Initially the TA members may have struggled with the notion of staging a matchday-like scene, but ultimately they recognized this was for a greater good, and rightly so. The game is still growing and supporters clubs are still establishing themselves.

If a comedy program wants to have some fun with the pretense of newbies awkwardly infiltrating their ranks, so be it.

So, by heeding the casting call during the taping last August, by showing up in full voice and full gear and giving the sketch some degree of authenticity, did the Timbers Army violate any Greater Supporters Club oath? Naw, they were just having fun. 

by Frank MacDonald