Sports broadcasting giant ESPN has successfully secured the US broadcast rights to the Canadian women's soccer competition, the Northern Super League (NSL). This marks a significant milestone in the development of NSL, positioning it within one of the most mature women's soccer markets worldwide.
The inaugural season of NSL is set to kick off on April 16 with Vancouver Rise taking on Calgary Wild at 7pm local time. The six-team league also includes Halifax Tides FC, Montreal Roses FC, Ottawa Rapid FC, and AFC Toronto. The season will run through November 15.
The NSL was conceived by former Canada national women's team player Diana Matheson who now serves as its chief growth officer. It was first introduced as a concept in late 2022 and is equally owned by all participating clubs along with Matheson’s group (Project 8).
ESPN+ streaming service
Through a multi-year deal with ESPN+, fans will be able to stream live coverage of up to 40 NSL games including select playoff games and the end-of-season final. This partnership further solidifies ESPN+'s commitment towards promoting women’s sports.
Sonia Gomez Baker, ESPN senior director for programming and acquisitions, said:
“We are glad to be a media home in the US for the Northern Super League and its marquee footballers. Professional women’s soccer is an ascendant sport, and the Northern Super League further cements our leadership in the category.”
ESPN already holds rights for several games each season from the National Women’s Soccer League in the US through a major deal struck in November 2023. Additionally, it covers English Women’s Super League across Latin America and Caribbean regions.
Domestic media rights & corporate partnerships
In terms of domestic media rights within Canada, TSN and RDS - both Bell Media-owned sports networks - along with national public service broadcaster CBC/Radio-Canada are official partners for league broadcasts.
The founding corporate partners supporting this new venture include Canadian Tire, DoorDash, CIBC, and Air Canada. Furthermore, Canada Soccer has pledged an annual contribution of $1 million to the NSL, matching the amount given to the men's Canadian Premier League.
The acquisition of US broadcast rights by ESPN marks a significant step in the growth and development of Canada’s Northern Super League. It not only provides an international platform for these athletes but also contributes towards promoting women's soccer on a global scale. With this partnership, fans can look forward to an exciting inaugural season filled with thrilling matches and exceptional talent.
