VANCOUVER, BC – With single match tickets now on sale, Vancouver Whitecaps FC have revealed preliminary plans to celebrate the club’s 40th anniversary.

"It's hard to believe that it's been nearly 40 years since we played our first ever match," said Whitecaps FC president Bob Lenarduzzi, who has been with the club since the first season in 1974. "We encourage fans to get their tickets early for the coming season as we celebrate our proud history, culminating with our May 3 anniversary match against San Jose Earthquakes."

Starting today, a new mark will be seen on various Whitecaps FC materials in 2014 to honour the club’s four decades of soccer in Vancouver. Later this season, Whitecaps FC will also reveal a commemorative 40th anniversary scarf.

The pinnacle of the club’s 40th anniversary celebrations will take place on May 3, when Whitecaps FC host San Jose Earthquakes at BC Place. This anniversary match, presented by Bell, will kick off nearly 40 years to the day of the club’s first ever match when the ’Caps hosted the Quakes at Empire Stadium on May 5, 1974. Whitecaps FC will hold their third annual Alumni Night to coincide with this event. Further details for May 3 will be announced as the match approaches.

In conjunction with the 40th anniversary, the club have launched a new history-laden webpage at whitecapsfc.com/since1974. Re-live the club’s past through an interactive timeline, weekly stories, contests, polls, and additional content. Fans are encouraged to share their own nostalgic Whitecaps FC photos and content on social media by using the hashtag #since74.

To kick off the season, season ticket holders are invited to an exclusive event on March 5 when Whitecaps FC reveal their new kit. Tickets to the event must be accessed through the ’Caps Card Loyalty Rewards program. Details on how to secure a spot will be included in season ticket packages, which will arrive in mid-February.

Single match tickets for all 2014 Whitecaps FC home matches are now available for purchase at all Ticketmaster Ticket Centres, online at ticketmaster.ca/whitecaps, or Charge-by-Phone at 1.855.6.GO-CAPS (1.855.646.2277).

Whitecaps FC begin their 2014 MLS season on March 8 versus New York Red Bulls at BC Place. Season tickets start at just $349, 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.