STADIUM USER GROUPS UNITE TO SUPPORT STADIUM

“We are overwhelmed with the support we have received from a large variety of user groups,” said Bob Lenarduzzi, Whitecaps Director of Soccer Operations. “Since we announced our vision of a waterfront stadium for Vancouver a number of potential users groups have come forward to express the need for a stadium of this type in order to bring the best cultural, community, concerts and sporting events to our city.”

Potential user groups that see an immediate need for the facility include the Canadian Soccer Association (CSA) and World Police and Fire Games 2009 British Columbia. The Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC) also indicated potential use for the proposed stadium.

“At a recent CSA Board of Directors meeting a motion was unanimously passed to immediately move forward with the preparations for a successful bid to win the hosting rights to stage the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2011.” said Victor Montagliani, Vice President, CSA. “To have this new stadium in Vancouver fully on board and ready to take on the challenge for this championship, including what we could see as the opening game in mid-August, would be a tremendous follow-up to the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.”

“We believe the British Columbia 2009 World Police and Fire Games is worthy of showcasing in Vancouver proper, close to public transit, accommodation, historic Gastown and a thriving downtown full of activities and scenery second to none,” said Co-Chair Jeff Clark. “We are one significant event out of many that will be able to eventually benefit from this outstanding community asset.”

Additional user groups that are calling on Vancouver City Council to prioritize the proposed stadium include: Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation – CIBC Run for the Cure, House of Blues Concerts Canada, Nettwerk Music Group, Rugby BC, Sport BC, Tennis BC, Tourism Vancouver, University of British Columbia, Vancouver International Jazz Festival, Vancouver Multicultural Society, Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, and the 2008 World Ultimate and Guts Championship committee, which would bid to host additional events at the venue.

On Tuesday, June 27 at 7:30 p.m. Vancouver City Council will hold a special council meeting to decide on the future of the proposed Whitecaps Waterfront Stadium. Supporters of the project are encouraged to attend the meeting and communicate their position to the Mayor and Council. For more information on the proposed stadium visit www.whitecapsnewstadium.com or www.city.vancouver.bc.ca.

CLICK HERE to read Dave Cobb and VANOC's letter of support.