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Chicago Sports Network has finally announced its direct-to-consumer app , and starting Friday, the network will provide Chicago Blackhawks, Bulls and White Sox fans another option to watch their teams. CHSN’s launch hasn’t gone as most fans hoped. From struggles with antennas to a lack of an agreement with Comcast, fans have loudly expressed their frustrations.

Advertisement To address the frustrations, the lack of carriage on Comcast and other providers, why the network isn’t free and the introduction of the new app, CHSN president Jason Coyle spoke with The Athletic on Thursday. Comcast declined to comment on the negotiations when contacted by The Athletic this week. Last month, Comcast told The Athletic , “We’ve had discussions with them and are not going to comment on specifics.



” (Note: This interview has been lightly edited for clarity and length.) I know a lot of people have been critical of the network’s rollout. From your perspective, how would you consider it? Have there been any surprises? What’s been your overall view of these first six weeks? There are different segments.

First, in terms of rolling out a network in five months, from zero name, zero logo, zero graphics, zero trucks, zero personnel to launch on time with a beautiful product, I’m very, very proud of the team. It’s not blowing smoke. I’m really excited about the way the games are being produced, really excited about the studio programming, really excited about the 24-hour network.

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