Former Whitecaps player sounds alarm regarding team's future in Vancouver
The future of the Vancouver Whitecaps is uncertain, and at least one former player is concerned about it.
The Whitecaps have been up for sale for over a year, and concern is growing that the club may eventually leave Vancouver.
You can count David Ousted among those people who are worried. The 41-year-old retired Danish goalkeeper, who played with Vancouver from 2013 to 2017, has launched a petition titled “Save the Whitecaps from relocation.”
Ousted, who currently works in youth soccer in Kamloops, is urging the business community and local government to find a solution that keeps the ‘Caps in Vancouver.
“The future of the Vancouver Whitecaps in Vancouver still feels uncertain, and it’s something that matters a lot to me and to many people across the city and throughout B.C.,” Ousted said in a Monday morning social media post.
“We should be concerned that there is no solution for the team’s future at BC Place, while the team awaits a new potential stadium at the PNE,” Ousted added via the petition. “We urge the government and the local business community to collaborate and find a solution to prevent the relocation of the Vancouver Whitecaps.
“It’s essential that provisions be made to support the team’s financial needs while maintaining their historic roots in Vancouver. Flexibility and commitment from the government are crucial to keeping the Whitecaps where they belong.”
MLS commissioner Don Garber has repeatedly said that continuing to play at BC Place is “untenable.” The provincial government has since given the Whitecaps a more favourable deal to play games out of BC Place, but the club has still identified that a new soccer-specific stadium is necessary for its long-term sustainability.
The City of Vancouver has offered up Hastings Park as a location to build a new stadium, but we’re still waiting for someone to step up and pay for it.
“We should be concerned,” says David Ousted (Bob Frid/Vancouver Whitecaps FC)
The petition appears to be quickly gaining momentum, with over 1,000 verified signatures at publication time.
Here is Ousted’s message via the petition, in full:
I am David Ousted, and I once had the privilege of playing for the Vancouver Whitecaps. The team has been more than just a soccer club for many of us; it represents a lifetime of memories, achievements, and community bonds. Now, working with Kamloops United youth soccer in BC’s interior, I see firsthand the impact and inspiration the Whitecaps continue to provide to the younger generation – province-wide.
For over 50 years, the Whitecaps have not only provided exhilarating moments on the field but have also contributed enormously to the cultural, social, and economic fabric of Vancouver and BC. The potential relocation of the team would be a devastating loss not only for the loyal fan base but for the community as well. The team’s presence in Vancouver extends beyond the games—they are a symbol of unity and pride, celebrated by people of all ages across the province.
The economic contributions of the team are undeniable. Local businesses thrive on game days, generating millions in revenue each year. Many industries benefit from the influx of fans, both local and from afar – including restaurant, hospitality, & tourism. Any move would directly affect this revenue, potentially leading to significant financial losses for countless Vancouver citizens and businesses.
The cultural impact of the team’s 50-year legacy cannot be understated. The Whitecaps have become a part of the city’s identity, with fans sharing stories of attending games with their families or watching local players rise through the ranks to play professionally. Young aspiring athletes draw inspiration from the team, dreaming of one day donning the Whitecaps jersey. Removing the team from Vancouver would sever this cultural lineage and deprive future generations of similar experiences and dreams. My own experience with the club, the city, and our fans – was a huge part of my family’s return back to Vancouver.
We should be concerned that there is no solution for the team’s future at BC Place, while the team awaits a new potential stadium at the PNE. We urge the government and the local business community to collaborate and find a solution to prevent the relocation of the Vancouver Whitecaps. It’s essential that provisions be made to support the team’s financial needs while maintaining their historic roots in Vancouver. Flexibility and commitment from the government are crucial to keeping the Whitecaps where they belong. The MLS Commissioner has openly stated that the current situation for the Whitecaps is untenable.
I am not accustomed to sitting on the “sideline.” We all need to jump onto the field, and support our amazing club. Please sign this petition to show your support for the Vancouver Whitecaps and to encourage all stakeholders to work together to ensure the team remains in Vancouver. Let’s protect this vital part of our community and continue to build on its incredible legacy. Your signature can make a difference. Let’s rally together and stand united for our beloved club. Signed, David Ousted & friends.