One of the biggest factor contributing to the rise of popularity is the hunger Vancouverites have for a championship title, any championship. And if not a championship, at least a team that wins consistently and has a confidence surrounding their opportunity to go far in the playoffs.
When you look at the teams that normally excite Vancouver sport lovers, for so long it had been the Canucks, and even, the B.C. the Lions. However, 71% of the 2015 Province Sports Poll respondents believed that both the Canucks’ and the Lions’ stock are falling. Looking at their recent form, you probably get why.
In contrast, in the same poll, 71% of respondents believed that the Whitecaps stock was rising, and B.C. Place with its roof open roof was voted favorite place to watch a game. Rogers Arena came third.
This past summer, B.C. Place was also the host of the FIFA Women’s World Cup FINAL, which earned it a lot of international attention, even making Four Four Two’s top 100 grounds in the world.
When you compare the atmosphere between Rogers Arena, which has notoriously been mocked as a dull venue to B.C. Place, and factor in the recent attitudes towards the ‘Caps and their home, I think the Whitecaps have earned the right to call their home, “the best sporting atmosphere in Vancouver”.
Last season, The Whitecaps finished second, and will be looking to do more of the same this campaign. This last month has seen the ‘Cap sign Japanese forward, Masato Kudo, and they’re close to signing Costa Rican midfielder, Christian Bolaños. The addition of these players is guaranteed to see the ‘Caps goal tally increase, and with it, the atmosphere in the stadium.
It’s not just the ‘Caps you can see play at B.C. Place. On March 25th, you’ll have the rare opportunity of watching the Canadian men’s national team play in Vancouver. The Reds will be playing, CONCACAF power house, Mexico. If you want to witness top quality football and see B.C. Place’s atmosphere at it’s best, make sure to go down.
In short, if you’ve never experienced a game at B.C. Place, you should probably add that to your list of 2016 resolutions.
