Twenty-five CFL games to be carried nationwide in high definition
New York, NY – May 30, 2006 – VOOM HD Network's WorldSport HD, dedicated to live high- definition global sports coverage, announced today that the channel has secured the rights to be the exclusive, high-definition, U.S. television broadcaster, for 25 live games from the Canadian Football League (CFL) during the 2006 season, including a weekly Friday night game, selected division playoffs, the Scotiabank East and West division Championships and the Grey Cup. The 2006 CFL season begins Friday, June 16, and wraps up with the 94th annual Grey Cup championship, the oldest professional championship game in North America. WorldSport HD is part of the VOOM HD Networks, the largest and most diverse suite of high-definition channels nationwide and currently available nationally on DISH Network.
"Canadian football provides fast-paced action with the League's three-down rule. Several hundred U.S. players are on the CFL's eight team rosters – creating a strong American connection with each season, that has formerly included NFL stars such as Doug Flutie, Warren Moon and Jeff Garcia," said CFL Commissioner Tom Wright. " VOOM HD Networks' high-definition coverage will be a strong draw for our devoted U.S. fans, as well as an attraction for those who have not yet experienced the excitement of Canadian football. This is our latest step in embracing new technology, and follows last year's launch of CFL wireless service that brings league scores and updates to WAP-enabled U.S. mobile telephones."
"Football is such a popular sport in North America, and the CFL delivers the only professional football games on Friday nights from June through October," said Greg Moyer, General Manager of VOOM HD Networks. "In high-definition, viewers see every aspect and angle of the sport clearly. The CFL coverage is an excellent addition to VOOM's already increasing library of visually stunning HD programming."
The VOOM-CFL high-definition TV agreement was arranged by Trajectory Sports & Media Group LLC, which has the international marketing responsibility for Canadian Football. The New York-based company has steadily broadened the distribution of CFL games in the United States and globally since partnering with the league in 2004.
About VOOM HD Networks
VOOM HD Networks is the largest suite of high definition channels available anywhere, produced exclusively in high definition for distribution in the United States through satellite and cable operators. The VOOM HD Networks carry programming in categories as diverse as sports, movies, fashion, music and art. Today, the VOOM HD Networks are available nationally on Echostar's DISH Network. The VOOM HD Networks were developed by Rainbow Media to meet the growing demand for quality high definition programming, building on Rainbow Media's history of original programming innovation. Website: www.voom.com
About Rainbow Media Holdings LLC
A leader in the entertainment industry, Rainbow Media Holdings LLC is a subsidiary of Cablevision Systems Corporation. Rainbow creates and manages some of the country's most compelling and dynamic programming with linear networks including national networks – AMC, fuse, IFC (The Independent Film Channel) and WE: Women's Entertainment; its regional programming service – Rainbow Sports Networks; on-demand networks including Mag Rack and sportskool; and the largest suite of high definition channels available anywhere – the VOOM HD Networks. Rainbow's other businesses include its film distribution, production and exhibition division – IFC Entertainment; in addition to its advertising sales division – Rainbow Advertising Sales Corporation – and its full service network programming origination and distribution company – Rainbow Network Communications.
About the Canadian Football League
Building on a strong past toward a stronger future, the Canadian Football League (CFL) celebrates the best of Canada's game with fans across the nation. The 94th Grey Cup will be played in Winnipeg, Manitoba on November 19, 2006. For more information, visit: www.cfl.ca .
About Trajectory Sports & Media Group LLC
New York-based Trajectory Sports & Media Group, LLC is an international management and media organization that works with clients to expand distribution, strengthen brands, secure sponsorships and open new markets. It syndicates programs from some of the world's most important sports leagues, manages the distribution of television channels and is actively involved with the creation of wireless content for worldwide access. Additional information is available at: www.trajectorysports.com