The Seven Network has signed a two-year agreement with Hockey Australia that will see all internationally sanctioned matches played by Australia’s national teams, the Kookaburras and Hockeyroos, as well as every match of the Hockey One League 2023 and 2024 seasons, shown live and free on Channel 7 and 7plus.
MD of Seven Melbourne and head of network sport, Lewis Martin, said Channel 7 viewers have long been absorbed by the fast pace, skill and athleticism of elite hockey.
“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," he said.
Hockey Australia CEO David Pryles said the new broadcasting deal with such a highly regarded network is a game changer for the sport.
“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," said Pryles.
“Bringing all Kookaburras and Hockeyroos matches to 7plus will expose our world class teams and athletes to new audiences and make them accessible to more people more often, by being offered live and free.
“The Seven Network has an exceptional record and reputation for broadcasting sport and we look forward to working closely with them over the next two years.”
The first matches to be shown on 7plus will be the Oceania Cup in Whangārei, New Zealand from August 10-13, 2023. The Oceania Cup sees the Kookaburras and Hockeyroos take on their New Zealand counterparts in a best-of-three series, with the winners automatically qualifying for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
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