Portland Timbers’ captain, Diego Chara, is set to make history by playing his 377th regular-season match for the club, breaking an MLS record for the most matches played for a single team. With over 33,000 minutes on the field, every minute has been dedicated to the Portland Timbers.
Photographer Craig Mitchelldyer, who has captured countless moments of Chara’s career, has curated a collection of 21 iconic images to commemorate this milestone. The selection process involved reviewing thousands of photos to showcase Chara’s impact both on and off the field.
Reflecting on the journey, Mitchelldyer recalls the first photo he took of Chara back in 2011 at LA Galaxy, where Chara’s trademark smile was already evident. From that moment, Chara’s legacy began, marking the start of a record-breaking tenure with the Timbers.
Beyond the field, Chara’s dedication to his family and the community shines through in the images. A heartwarming photo captures Chara walking with his daughters after a match, highlighting his role as a devoted father. The camaraderie between Chara and his teammates is also evident in celebratory moments, like the one shared with Darlington Nagbe during the 2015 season.
The pinnacle of Chara’s career came in 2015 with the MLS Cup victory, celebrated with teammates during a championship parade through downtown Portland. Chara’s commitment to the community is exemplified in images from events like Stand Together Week, where he engages with local youth, spreading joy through soccer.
Notable moments include the 2018 Western Conference Final, where Chara and Sebastián Blanco shared a celebratory embrace after a historic goal. Chara’s resilience was tested in extreme conditions during the coldest MLS match in history, played in frigid temperatures in Colorado.
2019 brought personal joy for Chara as he welcomed twins into his family, further solidifying his legacy both on and off the field. These milestones capture the essence of Diego Chara’s remarkable journey with the Portland Timbers, showcasing his unwavering dedication and impact on the club and community.
