Jay DeMerit Signs with the Vancouver Whitecaps FC for the 2011 MLS Season

The Vancouver Whitecaps FC (one of the latest MLS Franchises) has signed Jay De Merit to their team. De Merit is also known as the "Rocky Balboa" of US Soccer (for his role as a defender) according to the Vancouver Whitecaps FC President Bob Lenarduzzi.

The principal reason for signing DeMerit was his no-nonsense approach to soccer, which was instrumental in helping the US advance in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

De Merit received the news with joy stating that he was looking forward for a new opportunity to play for Vancouver.

Jay De Merit was born in 1979 in Wisconsin and cut his teeth on both sides of the Atlantic.

He started his soccer career with the University of Illinois in Chicago in 1998, before going to England to play for Watford.

He made more than 150 appearances in Watford and eventually became a captain of the team. His memorable event with Watford was his goal against Leeds United. The goal against Leeds United assured Watford of a promotion in the English Premier League.

De Merit debuted on the US Mens Soccer team in their 2007 game against Guatemala. He eventually rose through the ranks of US Soccer and participated in the 2009 FIFA Confederation Cup.

Jay De Merit is expected to start with the Vancouver Whitecaps FC in the year 2011. It appears that the club is starting on a positive note before the 2011 MLS season. It remains to be seen whether it will be the inspiration for the next season.