Some hold the opinion that television has a negative effect on sports. However, this statement can be refuted on the basis that television builds a sense of fan support, which ultimately motivates a team and has a positive effect on sport. Televised hockey creates an initial interest in the sport and generates a fan base. Hockey broadcasting offers an educational aspect for viewers. Televised games also promote player profiles enabling fans to follow their favourite athlete's career developments. Viewers who are interested and educated are fans who attend games and promote an enthusiastic environment, which motivates a team to play well.

Televised hockey generates interest in the sport where viewers who otherwise may not attend a game may choose to watch. The broadcasting of the 2002 Men's hockey finals generated a great amount of interest in Canada as there was an "all time television viewing record of 8.6 million viewers for the Canada - US Men's Ice Hockey final on CBC." This game was so widely watched and generated high attention to hockey at the International Level. This interest in hockey provides fans with a sense of pride for the Canadian game and viewers could continu

e to watch hockey after the Olympic Games were over in their hometown NHL arenas.

Furthermore, televised games can promote team rivalry. Broadcasting stations will often compare team statistics. For example, during a hockey game they might show penalty minutes or power play goals for each team to compare which team would be expected to play stronger at that point of the game. These rivalries existing between teams, like Ottawa and Toronto, can generate a great deal of fan support at the games. This promotes a positive game day environment and enhances team motivation, as the home team wants to beat the rival on home ice.

Televised hockey also provides a social aspect for fans. Hockey Night in Canada may be watched at home by a family or by a group of friends in a bar. These fans may choose to watch regularly together and cheer for their favourite teams. Fathers may try to share their love for hockey with their children by encouraging them to watch the televised games together. Family, friends, and couples all can enjoy a social time as they attend a game together.

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Approximate Word count = 893
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)