Tomorrow the NWHL makes history with the first professional women’s hockey game on national television as they take to NBC Sports for the semi-finals. But history has been being made on the ice all throughout the season. Toronto’s first win. Jillian Dempsey becoming the first player to notch 100 points. Numerous rookies scoring their first goals. The list goes on and even more impressive work has been happening behind the scenes.
Discover
Just days ago, the league announced the largest deal yet with Discover Financial Services, making it the official card of the NWHL.
“The partnership between Discover and the National Women’s Hockey League is an important moment in our league’s history. This will be a collaboration to push for progress, and we look forward to working with our new partner as the NWHL continues to grow.”
–NWHL Commissioner Tyler Tumminia
According to league officials, the deal was facilitated by the NWHL streaming partner Twitch. And includes on-ice advertising throughout the season, along with Discover being the presenting sponsor of The Isobel Cup. And although incredible, it is not all that shocking to dedicated hockey fans considering Discover’s continued support of the sport over the years. Until now, for the most part, that support has been exclusive to men’s leagues.
But Discover’s Senior VP and Chief Marketing Officer, Kate Manfred, looks to change that, stating:
“Discover has long been a sponsor of hockey at all levels. We are honored to become the Official Credit Card of the National Women’s Hockey League. We look forward to presenting the Isobel Cup, and supporting the continued growth of the NWHL and the sport overall.”
– Discover’s Senior VP and Chief Marketing Officer Kate Manfred
“We appreciate working with our streaming partners, such as the NWHL, to build mission-driven initiatives that enable brands like Discover to not only connect with consumers but also pursue projects that align with their corporate values. Discover supports hockey at all levels, and this partnership helps promote women’s professional hockey in the drive for wage parity in sports. We’re looking forward to more brands following their lead in supporting this important cause.”
– Lou Garate, Global Head of Sponsorship Sales at Twitch.
Dicks Sporting Goods Joins In
But it doesn’t stop there! Today it was announced that Dick Sporting Goods would sponsor the trophy presentation and finals MVP award presentation. The announcement also noted the MVP will be receiving a ‘major gift’ from the brand, although the specifics are currently unknown.
With both the Riveters and Whale exiting the bubble, all four remaining teams will play in tomorrow’s semifinals.
The first and fourth seeds The Beauts and The Six will face off on NBC Sports at 5:30 pm. The second and third The Pride and Whitecaps will follow at 8:30 pm to see who will make it to Friday’s final.
Both of games will be available on Twitch as always for international viewers.
Follow me on Twitter @sportyspiccee. Be sure to tune as this season winds down. And check out Beyond Women’s Sports for more articles on amazing women and their sport.
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