Packed stadiums, fan engagement, solid viewership, and robust commercial support highlight Canadian appetite for professional women’s soccer
Toronto, ON – May 29, 2025 — The Northern Super League (NSL), Canada’s new professional women’s soccer league, has kicked off its inaugural season with resounding success. The highly anticipated league kicked off last month with packed stadiums, world-class play, enthusiastic fan engagement, national media attention, and remarkable commercial support, signalling a bold new era for women’s sport in Canada.
Packed Stadiums Across the Country
Home openers in Vancouver, Toronto, Halifax, Ottawa, Montreal, and Calgary drew passionate, sell-out or near-capacity crowds. The opening matches in Vancouver and Toronto saw more than 14,000 fans in attendance, with similarly electrifying and sold-out atmospheres in every founding city — confirming the league’s place in the hearts of Canadian sports fans.
Strong National Broadcast Audiences
NSL matches have aired across TSN, RDS, CBC Gem, ESPN+ and NSL.ca with top-tier production and compelling storytelling showcasing the league and its players.
In April, NSL games reached over 1.5 million viewers on its linear broadcasts across Canada on TSN, RDS and Radio-Canada (Source Numeris) with tens of thousands more views of full matches on digital platforms. Since the season kicked off, social media engagement has surged with over 15 million impressions, a 40% increase in followers, and millions of views and shares on matches, recaps and highlights.
Merchandise Flying Off the Shelves
NSL team merchandise — from jerseys and scarves to hats and hoodies — has exceeded all projections, with many items selling out within days of launch. Both online and in-stadium sales are thriving with close to $1M in total sales, reflecting a passionate and growing fan base eager to support their clubs.
Extensive Media Coverage and Storytelling
National, local and international media have embraced the league’s debut, with coverage spanning mainstream news outlets, sports platforms, and community media. Athlete profiles, game-day features, and behind-the-scenes content have fueled momentum. According to new Meltwater data, since April 1, the NSL has generated more than 18,400 unique media mentions, with a cumulative potential editorial reach of 10.2 billion.
Elite-Level Talent and Quality of Play
NSL matches have showcased high-calibre competition, technical excellence, and fast-paced, entertaining play that rivals top international leagues. The league features a dynamic mix of seasoned Canadian National Team players, rising domestic stars, and top international talent. In a strong endorsement of the league’s calibre, six NSL players were recently named to Canada’s National Team for the latest international window. From highlight-reel goals and dramatic finishes to standout performances across all positions, the first month has proven that Canadian fans aren’t just witnessing history — they’re witnessing elite professional soccer.
Competitive Balance Driving Excitement
Through the opening weeks, the Northern Super League has delivered parity and unpredictability — hallmarks of a healthy and competitive league. Just a few points separate the clubs in the standings. Each match has carried weight, with tight scorelines, dramatic comebacks, and late winners keeping fans on the edge of their seats. The league’s competitive balance is not only fueling fan interest — it’s raising the bar for performance across the board.
The Northern Super League has also seen several of its Canadian players called up to the Canadian Women’s National Team for the first time.
Unprecedented Sponsor Support
The league’s strong commercial foundation is backed by iconic national brands, including Canadian Tire, BMO, Toyota, Coca-Cola, DoorDash, Simons, Intact Insurance and WestJet. These partners are not only investing in the sport but also activating their support through broadcast integration, digital campaigns, and community initiatives — helping to elevate the league while inspiring future generations.
“The start of the Northern Super League has been emotional for all of us who dreamed about this and have worked so hard to make it real,” said Diana Matheson, Founder and Chief Growth Officer of the Northern Super League. “We always knew Canadians would rally around women’s professional soccer — and they’ve shown up in ways that have blown us away. I’m so proud of the hundreds of people who’ve poured their hearts into building this league — from staff to players to partners and volunteers. This has been a month we will never forget, and it’s only the beginning.”
The Northern Super League continues its inaugural season this summer with marquee matchups, community events, and more historic firsts. For ticket and broadcast information, visit NSL.ca.
About the Northern Super League
The Northern Super League is Canada’s first professional women’s soccer league with six founding clubs: Calgary Wild FC, Halifax Tides FC, Montréal Roses, Ottawa Rapid FC, AFC Toronto, and Vancouver Rise FC. Built by players and supporters, the League is rooted in global best practices and strives to champion Canadian excellence in sport, equity, and inclusion. For broadcast, streaming and ticket information, visit www.NSL.ca.
Media Contact:
Greg McIsaac
Junction Communications
greg@junctioncommunications.com
416-458-3591