Vancouver is a city whose daily life is nearly inseparable from sports, writes ivancouver. Vancouverites are well-known for their deep passion for an active lifestyle. As such, it’s unsurprising that sports have become a common pastime among the city’s residents.
However, beyond treating sports as a beneficial and enjoyable activity, many Vancouverites choose it as a lifelong pursuit—building careers in athletics.
In this article, referencing whitecapsfc.com, we delve into the story of Vancouver’s renowned football club. The players of this club once chose sports as their careers, overcoming numerous challenges along the way. Despite these hurdles, the club grew increasingly famous and achieved remarkable success.
An Historic Club
The Vancouver Whitecaps are a celebrated football club founded in 1986. Initially, they were part of the Canadian Soccer League and were known as Vancouver 86ers. Later, they joined the APSL.
In 1995, the club merged with the A-League and was renamed the Vancouver Whitecaps.
Eventually, the Whitecaps franchise became part of the USL First Division before navigating the transition season of the 2010 Pro League.
Champions
In 2011, the club joined Major League Soccer (MLS). During its second season in the top division, the Whitecaps qualified for the playoffs.
In 2015, the club earned the Canadian Championship title, securing a spot in the 2015/2016 CONCACAF Champions League.
A Painful Loss
On October 12, 2009, the Whitecaps vied for their second championship title after defeating Puerto Rico’s team. Charles Gbeke scored twice during the second half, leading to victory.
Later, however, the team’s performance dipped. Vancouver finished seventh in the regular season but regained momentum in the playoffs, reaching the final. Unfortunately, the Whitecaps lost to the Montreal Impact in the championship match.
A New Chapter
In November 2009, the Whitecaps announced their intention to leave the United Soccer Leagues Premier Division (USL-1) to become co-founders of the North American Soccer League (NASL), slated to begin operations in 2010.
However, the Canadian Soccer Association later declared that neither the USL nor NASL would operate as a second-division league for the 2010 season.
The Entry Process
On July 24, 2008, Major League Soccer (MLS) announced plans to expand by adding two new franchises for the 2012 season.
The following day, the Whitecaps formally declared their intention to acquire a franchise spot, with Steve Nash joining the club’s ownership group.
MLS Commissioner Don Garber commented on the league’s potential in Vancouver, citing interest from over 50,000 fans eager to see a friendly match against the LA Galaxy.
The Whitecaps officially submitted their bid on October 15, 2008. A meeting with MLS representatives followed on November 21, 2008.
In December of the same year, MLS President Mark Abbott visited BC Place to inspect renovations for the stadium, which was set to reopen for the 2011 season when the Whitecaps would make their MLS debut. The club opened that season at Empire Field and moved to BC Place in fall 2011.
Joining Major League Soccer
Whitecaps fans celebrated the club’s victory during its inaugural MLS match on March 19, 2011, against Toronto FC. Eric Hassli scored the first goal in the team’s MLS history.
The Whitecaps secured the league’s 17th franchise spot, solidifying their place in Major League Soccer.
On November 24, 2009, Paul Barber was appointed CEO of the club. Former DC United coach Tom Soehn became the director of soccer operations, and Richard Grootscholten was named technical director and head coach of the residency program.
Former Iceland national player Teitur Thordarson was appointed head coach on September 2, 2010, to prepare for the first MLS season. However, he was dismissed on May 30, 2011, after the Whitecaps managed only one win in their first 12 matches.
Coaching Changes
The Whitecaps’ first MLS match occurred on March 19, 2011, resulting in a victory over Toronto FC. Eric Hassli scored the team’s inaugural MLS goal.
Following this win, the club experienced a series of losses, leading to the dismissal of coach Teitur Thordarson.
The Fan Group
Speaking of the Whitecaps, it’s worth mentioning their dedicated fan group, the Southsiders.
Founded in 1999, the group’s name references Swangard Stadium’s southern section.
The Southsiders consider themselves the oldest football fan group in Vancouver. Initially called the “Carlsberg Crew,” after the stadium sponsor, the group later became the “Canterbury Chorus” following a sponsorship change.
Eventually, the fans opted for independence from sponsorship influences, renaming themselves the Southsiders.
A Club of Perseverance
The Vancouver Whitecaps have experienced their fair share of ups and downs. However, as this article illustrates, neither the players nor the management ever gave up. They approached setbacks with resilience and determination, embodying the spirit of true sportsmanship.
This perseverance is a hallmark of Vancouverites. Known for their calm and composure, they handle challenges with grace and seek solutions in every situation.
Returning to the Whitecaps, this football club is a shining example of steady progress toward a goal. Over the years, the team has faced numerous hurdles, often encountering repeated defeats. Nevertheless, the Whitecaps found ways to improve, refine their tactics, and enhance their roster.
Such tenacity has helped the club earn international acclaim and a dedicated fan base. It’s this unwavering resolve that keeps the Whitecaps afloat, enabling them to turn setbacks into victories.
The Vancouver Whitecaps have carved their own chapter in the city’s football history—a chapter that continues to grow with new teams, clubs, and achievements.