In an unprecedented partnership, the Seven Network has signed a two-year broadcasting agreement with Hockey Australia.
The new partneership will bring Australia’s beloved hockey teams, the Kookaburras and the Hockeyroos, as well as the Hockey One League matches for 2023 and 2024 to Channel 7 and its free streaming platform, 7plus.
The collaboration will mark a first in the sports industry by showing all internationally sanctioned matches played by Australia’s national hockey teams free of charge on 7plus. This live coverage will commence with the Oceania Cup in Whangārei, New Zealand from August 10 to 13, 2023.
The upcoming Oceania Cup series is one to watch as it pits the Kookaburras and Hockeyroos against their New Zealand rivals in a best-of-three clash. The winners of this competition will be granted automatic entry into the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Seven Network’s Head of Network Sport and Managing Director in Melbourne, Lewis Martin, commented on the intense energy and high skill level of elite hockey.
“Channel 7 viewers have long been absorbed by the fast pace, skill and athleticism of elite hockey, most notably when our national teams go for gold at the Olympic and Commonwealth Games.
“This new partnership with Hockey Australia will allow audiences to follow our home-grown stars from the grassroots of the game to the major championships.”
David Pryles, the CEO of Hockey Australia, also expressed his delight at the broadcasting agreement with the esteemed Seven Network.
“This is an exciting and significant day for hockey in Australia, as this agreement with the Seven Network will provide greater visibility and awareness of our national teams and the Hockey One League.”
Pryles further noted that the arrangement would introduce the country’s top-level teams and players to new fans by making them more accessible, thanks to the live and free coverage on 7plus. He added that he was looking forward to collaborating with Seven Network, which has an impressive track record in sports broadcasting.
7plus, the free streaming service of Seven Network, reaches over 13 million active users through its availability on 13 platforms, such as Connected TVs, Web, Mobile (iOS & Android), and Casting (Chromecast & Airplay).
