Just one game into the 2013 season and already Vancouver Whitecaps FC are down a man.

Captain Jay DeMerit suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon and will be out indefinitely, the has team confirmed.  He is scheduled to undergo surgery today.

The six-foot-one, 180-pound centre back played the first seven minutes of Vancouver's season opening 1-0 victory over Toronto FC before leaving with the injury. He was replaced by newcomer Brad Rusin.

DeMerit entered 2013 coming off of an all-star season in 2012 in which he started 31 of Vancouver's 32 and helped lead the club to its first ever appearance in the MLS Cup playoffs.

The usual recovery time from that type of injury is between 6 and 8 months, which means Demerit could be sidelined for the remainder of the season.

Demerit tweeted earlier today, "Thanks for all of your well wishes. Super bummed but always staying positive and keeping perspective."

The Whitecaps return to action on Saturday against the Columbus Crew.