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- THE BUZZ:
For the second time in three seasons, the Vancouver Whitecaps are the defending United Soccer Leagues' First Division champions. They begin the quest to repeat on Saturday when the Charleston Battery visits Swangard Stadium (7 p.m., www.usllive.com).
- HISTORY:
The Whitecaps, who were 15-7-8 in 2008, begin the 23rd consecutive soccer season at Swangard. It's also the 35th anniversary of the original Whitecaps, who launched May 5, 1974 and played in the North American Soccer League through 1984.
- CHARLES IN CHARGE:
Striker Charles Gbeke played only three league matches for Vancouver during roster stints in 1998, 2001 and 2003, but became a force after he was acquired midway through 2008. He scored both goals to win the 2008 USL title over Puerto Rico, earning man of the match honours.
- THOR'S THOUGHTS:
"The level of the soccer here is much higher than I thought it was," said Whitecaps' coach Teitur Thordarson, who is entering his second North American season. "Our league especially, a very competitive league, physical teams."
- CHARGED:
The Battery are coming off a disappointing fifth place finish in 2008 (11-12-7). They lost Cuban midfielder Osvaldo Alonso to the Seattle Sounders and defender Marco Reda to the Whitecaps. Charleston is backstopped by veteran Dusty Hudock. Assistant coach Mark Watson is the former 86er and Whitecap.
- SICK BAY:
Geordie Lyall and Justin Moose are training, but not ready to play after injury rehabilitation. Marlon James (ankle) won't play. Lyle Martin remains sidelined for four to five weeks with a broken foot.