written by Bronte Dod | photos by Craig Mitchelldyer

Jake Zivin may have the best seat in the house at Providence Park. He’s the play-by-play announcer for Oregon’s Major League Soccer team, the Portland Timbers. If he doesn’t have the best seat in the house, he certainly has the best memory. Zivin can immediately recall facts and figures for every player on the field, no matter the team.

With a background in journalism, Zivin, 30, balances his genuine reactions to the game with being factual and objective about both teams on the field. Zivin weaves the game’s story for the radio audience, describing action and providing interesting facts about the game.

Originally from Evanston, Illinois, Zivin hides his Chicago accent for the two-and-a-half hours he’s on the air during game day.

“There are plenty of MLS teams that don’t have this,” Zivin said, referring to the intense fandom that the Timbers has inspired. “To be able to come and call a game in this stadium, with this fan base, is such a privilege.”