VANCOUVER, BC – Get your bell-bottoms and afro wigs out of storage because May 3 will be “Saturday Night Fever” when Vancouver Whitecaps FC host San Jose Earthquakes at BC Place. Fans are encouraged to get in the spirit of the ‘70s and come to the match in their retro apparel.
This special 40th anniversary match presented by Bell will celebrate the first ever ‘Caps match played on May 5, 1974 against the Earthquakes. To commemorate the occasion, Whitecaps FC and Bell will be giving every season ticket holder an exclusive 40th anniversary scarf, valued at $30, as a free gift not available for purchase. Season ticket holders will receive an e-mail with instructions on how to pick-up their scarves. Prorated season tickets remain available at whitecapsfc.com/tickets. Half-season and 5-Pack holders can also upgrade to season tickets and receive an exclusive scarf.
As part of the May 3 celebrations, pioneers from the original 1974 Whitecaps team (pictured below right) will be honoured during a pre-match ceremony, which will include the original ball and coin from the first match. A limited edition line of 1974-themed Whitecaps FC merchandise will be released for sale the week of the match. In addition, the 'Caps will be hosting their annual Alumni Night.
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“Professional soccer has had an incredible journey in Vancouver over the last 40 years,” said Whitecaps FC president Bob Lenarduzzi. “It’s very exciting to see the ‘Caps again capturing hearts and minds in this city. It started in 1974 and has continued throughout all eras.”
A dollar went a long way back in 1974 – bread was $0.39 per loaf and gasoline was $0.14 per litre – and today the dollar will go a long way again. To celebrate the 40th anniversary, Whitecaps FC will be making a honourary donation to one of the club’s main charitable pillars, mental health. Proceeds will directly support Clara’s Big Ride Vancouver Community Champions – the Kettle Society and the Canadian Mental Health Association BC Division. So on May 3, Whitecaps FC are asking every fan to #BuckUp for Mental Health and donate at least one dollar at the match.
For more nostalgic content, including a White is the Colour Ringtone, Where are they now, and Forgotten Stories, visit whitecapsfc.com/since1974.
It’s not too late to participate in the best sporting experience in Vancouver. Whitecaps FC offer a flexible range of ticket products, including prorated season tickets ($294), half-season tickets ($244), 5-packs ($149), student season tickets ($199), and a youth soccer half-season ticket ($100). Single-match tickets start at $22, subject to applicable fees. For more information on all Whitecaps FC ticket options, call 604.669.9283 ext. 2 or visit whitecapsfc.com/tickets.
