Canada’s Northern Super League Secures Major ESPN Deal Ahead of Debut Season

Canada’s Northern Super League has signed a landmark multi-year broadcasting agreement with ESPN, bringing the country’s first professional women’s soccer league to U.S. audiences ahead of its inaugural season.

The deal will see over 40 matches per year — including select playoff games and the final — streamed on ESPN+, expanding the league’s international reach and visibility. The first match, between Vancouver Rise FC and Calgary Wild FC, kicks off April 16 at BC Place in Vancouver, streaming live at 7pm PT / 10pm ET.

Founded by former Canadian international and Olympic medalist Diana Matheson, the Northern Super League aims to provide a sustainable domestic platform for elite women’s players in Canada, a country known for its achievements in the women’s game but until now lacked a professional league.

The six founding clubs are based in major Canadian markets: Halifax Tides FC, Montreal Roses FC, Ottawa Rapid FC, AFC Toronto, Calgary Wild FC, and Vancouver Rise FC.
“This is a huge moment for women’s soccer in Canada,” said league president Christina Litz. “ESPN’s commitment to women’s sports and wide platform makes them the ideal partner as we launch and grow our league.”