BEAVERTON, Ore. – Zarek Valentin has enjoyed the most productive year of his professional career, a statement that could stand on its own if it didn’t miss so many other landmarks that have arrived in his life. Having recently concluded his college course work as well as gotten engaged to his now-fiancée, Liz, Valentin establishing himself as regular starter for the Portland Timbers can be seen as a footnote. Even though he is a professional soccer player, life is still more important beyond the field.
That’s where Valentin’s most recent honor comes into view.