How do you know that you’re at a Canadian Premier League meet-and-greet event with circuit president Paul Beirne and two prospective partners in a Saskatchewan franchise?

That means excitement isn’t enough. Here’s the real question, folks. How much are you willing to spend? Tickets? Subscription packages? Merchandise?

But, officially, the Canadian Premier League era began Saturday in Whistler B.C., as the new league was ratified by the Canadian Soccer Association.

So, a Canadian League, a Canadian team guaranteed to play in MLS Cup and a possible end to discrimination against Canadian players by American teams?

Toronto FC made a statement today on a series of ads for the upcoming World Football Challenge which indicate the Reds will be part of the tournament."No we are not part of the World Football Challenge,” said TFC director of business operations Paul Beirne. “This must have been done in error. At one point we were in discussions but the schedule doesn't allow without compromising our team."