The Walt Disney Company (DIS), through its ESPN network, has purchased a minority stake in the Arena Football League.
This move will result in the broadcasting of 14 of the leagues games on a Monday night basis, and another 12 games throughout the season, including the playoffs. Details of the agreement were not released.
The purpose of the league is to offer football fans a year-round opportunity to watch the sport. The schedule for 2007 runs from March through June.
ABC-TV will be included as part of the programming picture as it will hots two opening games in March, and will carry the ArenaBowl championship game on July 29.
Through the five-year agreement, ESPN will have multimedia rights that crosses various platforms; including TV, radio, and international distribution.
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