PWHL’s National Broadcast: A Turning Point for Women’s Hockey
The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) is poised to reach a wider audience than ever before with its first-ever nationally televised game in the United States. The March 28th matchup between the New York Sirens and the Montréal Victoire, airing on ION, marks a significant milestone in the league’s quest for greater visibility and mainstream acceptance.
The Power of National Exposure
This broadcast, expected to reach over 126 million US households, represents a substantial leap forward for the PWHL. Previously reliant on regional sports networks and streaming services, the league is now tapping into the reach of linear television. The game’s presentation is sponsored by Ally Financial, with WPP Media facilitating the partnership with Scripps Sports.
A Wave of Momentum
The timing of this national broadcast couldn’t be better. The recent Winter Olympic Games, where 61 PWHL players competed and secured 41 medals – including Team USA’s gold – has significantly boosted interest in women’s ice hockey. This surge in popularity is reflected in the PWHL’s own growth, with the league approaching 2 million fans and experiencing a 20% year-over-year increase in average attendance.
Expanding the PWHL Footprint
The 2025-26 PWHL season will see further expansion with the addition of the Seattle Torrent and Vancouver Goldeneyes, marking the league’s first foray into the west coast market. This expansion, coupled with the national broadcast deal, demonstrates the PWHL’s ambition to become a truly pan-North American league.
The ‘Takeover Tour’ Strategy
The nationally televised game is part of the PWHL’s “Takeover Tour,” a strategic initiative to bring games to cities outside the home markets of the competing teams. This approach aims to cultivate new fan bases and generate excitement in untapped regions. Other cities hosting Takeover Tour games with national coverage include Denver (Tegna), Detroit (Scripps), Chicago, Dallas, and Washington, DC (Fox-owned stations).
A Multi-Platform Approach to Broadcasting
Scripps Sports shares domestic rights to the 2025-26 PWHL season with Fox, Paramount, Gray Media, and Tegna. This multi-platform approach ensures that PWHL games are accessible to a broad audience through a variety of channels, including over-the-air television, pay TV, connected TV, and free, ad-supported streaming platforms.
What This Means for the Future
The PWHL’s success hinges on continued growth in viewership and revenue. Securing national broadcast deals is a critical step in achieving these goals. The league’s partnership with Scripps Sports and Ally Financial signals a growing confidence in the potential of women’s professional hockey. Brian Lawlor, president of Scripps Sports, noted the “all-time high” fan interest, fueled by the Winter Olympics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PWHL ‘Takeover Tour’?
The Takeover Tour involves taking 16 regular-season games to cities outside the home markets of the competing teams to build new fan bases.
Which networks are broadcasting PWHL games?
Scripps Sports, Fox, Paramount, Gray Media, and Tegna all share broadcasting rights to the PWHL.
How many households can access the nationally televised game?
The game on ION is expected to reach over 126 million US households.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the PWHL schedule and broadcasting partners to catch future games and support the growth of women’s professional hockey.
Explore more about the PWHL and its teams on the official PWHL website.
