NWHL scores first broadcast partner with NESN deal

US ice hockey competition the National Women’s Hockey League has secured its first broadcast deal through an agreement with regional cable-television broadcaster New England Sports Network.

The NWHL is currently engaged in its debut season having commenced play last month. Under its agreement, NESN has committed to broadcast eight Boston Pride games for the remainder of the 2015-16 season.

The NESN schedule will begin on Sunday when the Pride host the New York Riveters. All of the games on the NESN schedule will also be broadcast on the NWHL’s YouTube channel for fans living outside the New England area.

“The broadcast value of the women’s game has never been better, and we’re happy NESN is providing a stage for and shining a spotlight on some of the best players in the world,” NWHL commissioner Dani Rylan said. “This is a great opportunity for women’s hockey to reach the 4m viewers in NESN’s coverage area.”