What a difference a year makes. This time last year Joe Cannon, Jay DeMerit, and John Thorrington struggled with various injuries that kept them out of the Vancouver Whitecaps FC line-up for most of the first part of last year’s MLS season. And our second pick in the SuperDraft, Michael Nanchoff, also came into the preseason with an injury that kept him out for most of 2011.
This time around, things are starting much differently. Right now, they are all healthy and enjoying a tough preseason, while looking forward to helping the ‘Caps get off to a quick start this season. I don’t want to harp too much on the past, but imagine what a fit Cannon, DeMerit, and Thorrington could have done at the start of last season. They are the spine of the team, as they play right down the middle of the field, and they offer a ton of experience.
The difference this season can be largely attributed to our medical staff, who have now have a full year with the players. Together, they are a very important cog in the wheel, as the ‘Caps strive to be the best they can be in 2012.
The medical team and players have now experienced a season in MLS and are more aware of the travel and physical demands. It will be very important to keep these key players healthy and on the field. To do so, the medical staff has been working hard with the players on exercises that are geared towards prevention of injuries.
It’s been a joy to watch a healthy squad, and with the help of our medical team, hopefully it will stay that way.
Whitecaps FC 2012 Major League Soccer season tickets start at $329, plus applicable tax and a $10 processing fee per order. To secure a seat and for additional information about Whitecaps FC MLS season tickets, including loge seats and suites, call 604.669.9283or visit whitecapsfc.com/tickets.
