Suffice to say, the 2012 season didn't turn out nearly like many Timbers fans wanted, and I don't think the organization was too pleased to miss out on the MLS postseason, either. Team owner Merritt Paulson announced there would be several changes forthcoming, and as soon as the MLS season was completed, the Timbers have delivered with a dizzying array of moves to fortify their roster.

Despite the on-the-pitch issues, the ticket buying public is speaking loudly and optimistically with their money and the verdict is the Timbers are a huge success business wise for 2012.

The team announced several key milestones relating to season ticket sales. After setting their original cap at 12,000 for their inaugural season in 2011, the team raised the cap by 500 just before their opening match and then moved the number up to 14,750 for the 2012 campaign. The team has once again raised that number for 2013 to 15,250, and with today's release,

Portland has again sold out its entire allotment of season ticket packages for 2013.

For the newly released seats, the team held a lottery for existing season ticket holders to purchase additional seats then made the remaining seats available for parties on the waiting list. While some were accommodated, the team still has over 6,500 people on their waiting list for season tickets. Those on the waiting list will be given priority to purchase seats to selected games or other packages that might become available during the year.

Portland

also announced that they had a 96 percent ticket renewal rate from their existing season ticket base for 2012, so people are returning to the team even after the struggles and challenges.

If you are interested in joining the wait list for Timbers season tickets, contact the Timbers office at 503-553-5555 or email the team at

ticketsales@portlandtimbers.com

. There is a $50 deposit to join the waiting list, but the fee is refundable and does give you the potential opportunity to purchase a full season ticket package. Individual game tickets and other ticket packages will be made available sometime early next year.