Women's Sports Bars: The New Wave in Boston

The sports scene in Boston is about to get a major shake-up. A new franchise is on its way to the city, focusing solely on women's sports. This isn't just a bar; it's a movement. The Sports Bra, as it's known, started in Portland, Oregon, back in 2022. It was the first of its kind, dedicating all its screens to women's sports. Now, it's setting its sights on Boston, along with three other cities. The idea for expansion came after a significant investment in 2024. Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit and husband of tennis star Serena Williams, saw potential in this growing market. His foundation invested in The Sports Bra, aiming to spread the franchise across the country. The response has been overwhelming. Within a day of opening applications, over 200 people showed interest in becoming franchisees. Boston's franchise is a group effort. Eight friends, all passionate about women's sports, are behind it. They've been hosting watch parties and pop-ups for over a year, building a community of fans. Their goal? To create a home for these fans in Boston. They're not alone. Similar groups have emerged nationwide, showing the demand for such spaces. The timing seems perfect. Women's sports are booming. Revenue is projected to hit $2. 35 billion in 2024, a massive jump from 2022. Media coverage has also surged, reflecting this growing interest. Boston, with teams like the PWHL's Boston Fleet and the upcoming NWSL's Boston Legacy FC, is no exception. However, growth comes with challenges. The founders are cautious about expanding too quickly. They want to ensure each location is thoughtfully planned and intentionally executed. It's a balancing act, riding the wave of momentum while staying grounded. The Boston franchise will be unique. It will source products from local women-owned businesses, supporting the community. It will also be the first bar in the area to show exclusively women's sports. Other bars, like Drawdown Brewing and Parlor Sports, show mostly women's sports, but they mix in men's games too. The Sports Bra's arrival in Boston is more than just a new bar. It's a statement. It's a recognition of the growing fan base for women's sports. It's a celebration of the persistence and devotion of these fans. And it's a call to action for others to join this movement.