First after reaching the semi-final stage a number of times, the Whitecaps USL-1 championship in 2006, the first since the CSL four-peat in the early 1990s, gave the club a higher profile.

[2] Third the start of play and off-field success of Toronto FC encouraged speculation that Vancouver would pursue a Division 1 MLS franchise.

[5][6] Fifth David Beckham signed for the Los Angeles Galaxy giving soccer significant and sustained North American media attention as well as national legitimacy.

[15] Prior to 2008, from when it has been awarded to the Canadian Championship winners, the men's title was decided on regular-season matches between Canada's USL First Division sides.

John Rocha stepped down in August 2006 to focus on the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup as Vancouver site chairman while continuing to support the Whitecaps in a consulting role.

[18] Centre back Ryan Suarez retired due family commitments; in 2006 he was a late season addition to a defense that allowed no goals in playoffs.

[19] Victoria, BC native and eight year Whitecaps right back Geordie Lyall signed a contract with League 2 side Walsall F.C.

[25] The signing of two local players defender Nigel Marples of North Delta and Surrey goalkeeper Tyler Baldock was announced April 24.

[26] Goalkeeper Srdjan Djekanović was signed April 27 by Division 1 side Toronto FC after a one-week trial to back up Greg Sutton.