While Chivas USA open their 2013 campaign the day before in a March 2 contest against the Columbus Crew, MLS announced today

It’s the earliest start to an MLS season ever — and yes, that was the case this year, too, when the first games kicked off March 10.

But in an effort to minimize conflicts with World Cup qualifying and other international fixtures, MLS will start even earlier in 2013.

Kickoff times have yet to be announced for the opening nine games that weekend of the 34-game regular season season.

And yes, Galaxy tickets for next season are on sale, according to the club: Season ticket plans start at just $250 and include a ticket to all 17 of the club’s regular season games, as well as five bonus games and a number of exclusive benefits.

Tickets can also be purchased as part of a special holiday pack, which starts at just $64 and includes a ticket to the home opener, tickets to any two regular season games and a ticket to the home leg of the Galaxy’s CONCACAF Champions League Quarterfinal against Herediano of Costa Rica in March as well as a commemorative 2012 MLS Cup championship banner.

Meanwhile, are Galaxy fans ready for their close-up with the club’s back to back MLS trophies today at Home Depot Center?

There’s no column today, but I will return next week — Christmas Day — with a look back at the year’s events in soccer from a Southern California perspective.