VANCOUVER, BC – Almost 40 years have already flown by, so what’s another 40 days?

Today marks the official 40-day countdown until Vancouver Whitecaps FC commemorate the 40th anniversary of the club’s inaugural match.

On May 3, 2014, the ‘Caps host San Jose Earthquakes at BC Place – nearly 40 years to the day of the first ever match in Whitecaps FC history, when the Blue and White played the Quakes on May 5, 1974. Tickets remain available for this special event at whitecapsfc.com/tickets.

“The tradition and history of Whitecaps FC is something that our club takes great pride in,” said Whitecaps FC president Bob Lenarduzzi. “May 3 is going to be an exciting and nostalgic event for supporters past and present, so I encourage all fans to get their tickets early to secure their seats at BC Place and be part of the celebrations.”

In honour of the occasion, a series of content is being released on whitecapsfc.com/since1974, including feature stories on the past, contests, and prizes given out over the course of the 40 days leading into the match.

Starting today, fans can also vote online on a weekly Past vs. Present poll. Every person who votes will be entered to win one of 40 prizes, including a three-month pass to Steve Nash Sports Club and a one night deluxe accommodation for two at the Hyatt Regency.

Fans are encouraged to share nostalgic photos on social media using the hashtag #Since74. Entrants with the best photos will be rewarded with tickets to the May 3 match.

Wednesdays are time for Season Ticket Holders to cash in on their ‘Caps Points, and now they’ll have the opportunity to win MLS Throwback prizes, such as a signed jersey from MLS original Eric Hassli, who scored the ‘Caps first ever goal in MLS during the club’s inaugural match on March 19, 2011. Check back every Wednesday for new prizes on your ‘Caps Card page.

Throwback Thursday has been kicked up a notch as Whitecaps FC will catch up with alumni to find out Where are they now? Hear from former players such as NASL Soccer Bowl winning goalkeeper Phil Parkes and centre back Roger Kenyon, and first ever signing Glen Johnson. Read the latest edition on Frans Thijssen, the first Dutch player to win Footballer of the Year in England, and check back next Thursday as club ambassador Carl Valentine catches up with former fan favourite ‘Wee’ Willie Johnston.

Speaking of ‘Wee’ Willie, whitecapsfc.com/since1974 is also featuring a series of Forgotten Stories, going back through the archives to dig up tales from years gone by. Today, we look back at a famous moment in Vancouver’s rivalry with Seattle Sounders FC, when Johnston’s personal feud with fellow Scotsman Bruce Rioch went public.

Finally, what ‘Caps anniversary celebration would be complete without a White is the Colour ringtone? Download yours today at whitecapsfc.com/since1974.

It’s time to celebrate the past, and on April 14 – halfway through our countdown – we’ll have more information on the present as details will be revealed for match day celebrations on May 3.

Whitecaps FC season tickets start at the prorated price of just $331 and single-match tickets start at $22, subject to applicable fees. The 'Caps also offer a flexible range of ticket products, including half-season tickets ($244), 5-packs ($149), student season tickets ($199), and a youth soccer half-season ticket ($100). For more information on all Whitecaps FC ticket options, call 604.669.9283 ext. 2 or visit whitecapsfc.com/tickets.