Cablevision Launches Sports Tier

Cablevision Systems Corp. has launched a 10-channel sports tier priced at $4.95 per month for iO: Interactive Optimum subscribers.

The networks include Fox College Sports Atlantic, Central and Pacific; Fuel; Gól TV; The Golf Channel; NBA TV; Outdoor Life Network; The Outdoor Channel; and TVG Network.

Cablevision said the tier is available to customers at the “Family Cable” level or above, and it will require a digital set-top for those subscribers who do not have digital.

Subscribers who have already been receiving Golf and NBA TV in other packages will continue to do so, the company said.

The sports tier is located between channels 402-430.

A company spokesman said Cablevision will back the sports tier with a bevy of marketing support, including spots running on cross-channel avails, occasional free previews, print ads and information within iO Inside, a publication that is sent to the MSO’s digital-cable customers.

Although nothing is imminent, the spokesman noted that the tier could expand down the road, as “we are continually evaluating” services.