Free ad-supported streaming medium will feature classic games, content promoting marquee events
By NHL Public Relations
NEW YORK -- The National Hockey League today announced the debut of its first-ever NHL FAST (free ad-supported streaming) channel, showcasing a wide variety of curated NHL programming from the League's deep content library. Starting today, fans in the United States can find the NHL FAST channel on channel 216 on The Roku Channel, the home of free and premium entertainment on the Roku platform. The Roku Channel reaches U.S. households with an estimated 80 million people (as of Q4 2021) and is available for audiences to stream for free via Roku devices, on the Web, iOS and Android devices, Amazon Fire TV, and select Samsung TVs.
The NHL FAST channel will feature specially curated NHL content including the latest NHL game highlights, classic condensed games including memorable Stanley Cup® Playoffs, Stanley Cup® Final, and NHL All-Star games, plus an assortment of archived programming that captures the excitement of the NHL. The NHL FAST channel will also feature hundreds of hours of NHL Original Productions programming such as, "Welcome to the NHL" and "NHL Bound", and other engaging content and documentaries featuring the greatest Players, Clubs, and personalities in NHL history.
Additionally, leading into tentpole events such as the 2023 Discover NHL Winter Classic®, the NHL FAST Channel will feature event-specific content to get fans geared up for these marquee dates on the NHL calendar.
"The NHL FAST Channel is an exciting addition to our content distribution portfolio that will serve quality NHL content to a broader audience, a vital component in expanding the reach of our game and growing our fanbase," said Chris Foster, NHL Vice President, Digital Business Development. "We are thrilled to work with Roku on this new service to deliver a unique and creative NHL programming experience. The NHL Fast Channel will be an always-on destination for passionate NHL fans in the United States who are constantly looking to get their fix of dynamic NHL content."
"The Roku Channel is delighted to be the inaugural partner of the NHL as the League makes its exciting expansion into FAST. We look forward to working with the NHL to further broaden its audience by connecting this brand-new channel to our robust audience made up of millions of streamers," said Ashley Hovey, Head of The Roku Channel, AVOD. "Sports is a valuable content category for consumers, and we are thrilled to provide free and easy access to programming from one of the most popular Leagues in all of professional sports to our audience."
The NHL's FAST channel technology partner is Amagi, a global leader in cloud-based SaaS technology for FAST, broadcast playout in the cloud and global distribution to connected devices. The NHL FAST channel will be available on additional platforms in the coming months.
As a seasoned sports and technology enthusiast, I bring a wealth of knowledge in both the realms of sports entertainment and streaming technology. Having closely followed the intersection of sports leagues and digital platforms, my expertise extends to the strategic initiatives that organizations take to enhance their reach and engage with a broader audience. In the context of the recent announcement from the National Hockey League (NHL) regarding the launch of its NHL FAST (free ad-supported streaming) channel, I can provide a comprehensive understanding of the key concepts and implications involved.
First and foremost, the NHL FAST channel represents a significant move by the National Hockey League to leverage the growing trend of free ad-supported streaming services. This initiative aims to showcase a diverse range of curated NHL programming drawn from the league's extensive content library. The decision to launch on The Roku Channel, a prominent platform with an estimated reach of 80 million people in the United States, underscores the strategic partnership's potential impact on expanding the league's fanbase.
The content featured on the NHL FAST channel encompasses various elements tailored to cater to the preferences of hockey enthusiasts. This includes the latest NHL game highlights, classic condensed games featuring memorable Stanley Cup® Playoffs, Stanley Cup® Final, and NHL All-Star games. The channel also offers an assortment of archived programming, providing a nostalgic look back at the excitement of the NHL over the years. Importantly, the inclusion of hundreds of hours of NHL Original Productions programming, such as "Welcome to the NHL" and "NHL Bound," adds a layer of exclusive and engaging content that contributes to the overall appeal of the channel.
Furthermore, the NHL FAST channel is designed to be event-specific, aligning with marquee dates on the NHL calendar. In the lead-up to significant events like the 2023 Discover NHL Winter Classic®, the channel will feature content specifically tailored to build excitement and anticipation among fans. This approach not only enhances the viewer experience but also aligns with the broader strategy of leveraging special events to drive engagement.
The involvement of key stakeholders, including Chris Foster, NHL Vice President, Digital Business Development, and Ashley Hovey, Head of The Roku Channel, AVOD, highlights the collaborative nature of this initiative. The technological backbone supporting the NHL FAST channel comes from Amagi, a global leader in cloud-based SaaS technology for free ad-supported streaming (FAST), broadcast playout in the cloud, and global distribution to connected devices. This partnership is crucial in ensuring the seamless delivery and accessibility of the channel across various platforms.
In summary, the NHL FAST channel represents a strategic and forward-thinking approach by the National Hockey League to enhance its digital presence, reach a wider audience, and provide a compelling viewing experience for passionate NHL fans. The collaboration with The Roku Channel and the technological support from Amagi further solidify the league's commitment to staying at the forefront of sports entertainment in the digital age.
