Hoping to bring the next generation of fans to frozen ice, the National Hockey League has signed a pair of cartoon superstars.
Variety reports the NHL and Disney have an agreement to get kids more involved in the sport. Disney Channel's animated heroes "Phineas and Ferb" are coming to NHL arenas all over North America next season. Home teams will be showing video of the characters during games.
This is not the first animated move by the NHL; they recently hired comic book legend Stan Lee to develop a line of superheros to bring in a new demographic of fans. "The Guardian Project," hasn't created much buzz, though.
Originally a Disney special in 2007, "Phineas and Ferb" were given their own series in 2008. The funny drawings have become a ratings hit with Tweens and kids.
This is the latest attempt by the NHL to hold its place as the fourth most popular professional sports league in the United States. Because of changing demographics, many experts believe Major League Soccer will soon overtake the NHL in the hearts and minds of American sports fans.
