Justine Siegal and Keith Stein had a vision for the debut of the United States’ initial professional women’s baseball league in seven decades. To ensure success, they analyzed previous successful women’s leagues and learned from past failures. This groundwork laid the foundation for the Women’s Professional Baseball League, set to launch next year as part of the growing trend of women’s sports gaining popularity.
Establishing mainstream recognition is essential for the sustainability and profitability of such startups. While competitive salaries and financial incentives can attract top players who draw crowds and secure TV deals, analysts caution that success is not solely guaranteed by television exposure. A robust social media presence, effective branding, community engagement, and a sprinkle of luck are equally vital components.
Over the past three years, at least eight women’s professional leagues have emerged, including the Women’s Professional Baseball League, the fast-paced 3-on-3 Unrivaled women’s basketball league, and the Professional Women’s Hockey League. These leagues are tapping into the growing interest in women’s sports, with basketball leading the way. Notable players like Caitlin Clark are becoming household names, driving record viewership for leagues like the WNBA.
According to Justine Siegal, co-founder of the WPBL and the first female coach in Major League Baseball history, there is a pool of elite women athletes worldwide ready to showcase their talents to an eager fan base.
The landscape of women’s professional team sports is evolving rapidly, with leagues like the PWHL, Gainbridge Super League in soccer, and the Professional Volleyball Federation making significant strides. Unrivaled, founded by WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, saw successful viewership and high player salaries in its inaugural season, highlighting its long-term potential.
Despite these successes, launching women’s sports leagues historically presents challenges. The WNBA and NWSL, for instance, faced years of struggles in comparison to male counterparts before gaining stability and visibility.
Today, the environment for new women’s sports ventures is more favorable, with streaming services offering direct fan engagement opportunities. The NWSL secured a lucrative media rights deal, followed by the WNBA, which experienced a surge in attendance and viewership.
New leagues are gaining traction, particularly in regions with strong local support, as seen with the PWHL’s increasing attendance and the successful launch of the Northern Super League in Canada.
Investors are taking notice of the potential in women’s sports, with significant funding backing ventures like League One Volleyball. While challenges exist, industry experts emphasize the importance of differentiation in a competitive market and the need for a comprehensive strategy beyond just visibility.
Successful leagues prioritize not only fan engagement but also the well-being of athletes. Initiatives like the PWHL’s “Takeover Tour” and Unrivaled’s athlete-centered approach demonstrate a commitment to building a sustainable and athlete-friendly sports ecosystem.