Verizon took another step toward its goal of providing one of the country's most extensive TV programming lineups when it announced separate programming-distribution agreements with five networks.

Under the agreements, Verizon will carry the channels on Verizon FiOS TV when it launches later this year. They are: Varsity TV, Gospel Music Channel, Soundtrack Channel, MavTV and GolTV.

The networks announced today will complement other major cable and network channels available to Verizon subscribers.

Verizon previously announced agreements with NBC Universal Cable, Starz Entertainment Group, Showtime Networks, A&E Television Networks and Discovery Networks, and is close to finalizing agreements with several other major content-partners.

Verizon FiOS TV will offer customers a competitive alternative to cable or satellite. In addition to the channels announced today, FiOS TV will also deliver hundreds of other digital video channels, high-definition programming, video-on-demand content, music channels, an interactive programming guide and other customer-friendly features via the company's fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) broadband network. Verizon is already constructing FTTP networks in half the states where it offers landline communications service

Terms of the agreements with the channels announced today were not disclosed. Following are the details of the programming on each channel:

Varsity TV

As the only 24-hour network dedicated exclusively to teenagers, Varsity TV delivers programming produced by, for and about teens. Varsity TV complements the other offerings of the Varsity Media group, which delivers content at VarsityTV.com, Varsity On Demand and Varsity Mobile. The collective offerings allow teens to experience entertainment on their own terms and on the screen of their choice. Varsity TV’s programming features teen-created and professionally produced sports series, reality shows, dramas, comedies, music shows, animation and films.

Gospel Music Channel

The first 24-hour network devoted to all styles of gospel music. It captures the rich history and contemporary styles of gospel music and is targeted to viewers of all ages who are fans of all gospel music styles. The program schedule includes music videos, artist profiles, specials and live concerts of top artists such as Amy Grant, Mahalia Jackson, CeCe Winans, Switchfoot, Jars of Clay and Jump 5.

Soundtrack Channel

The only cable and satellite channel exclusively featuring music videos from movie and television soundtracks, including original movie videos that are produced for the channel. Soundtrack Channel also features entertainment news, behind-the-scenes specials and celebrity interviews.

MavTV

A new network targeting men aged 18-54. The emphasis is on sports and gaming, but it also presents all the other themes relevant to men, including women and relationships, gadgets, finance, health and fitness, and entertainment.

GolTV

The only bilingual (English/Spanish) channel in the United States dedicated to world soccer. It offers more than 1,500 live matches annually, news updates and informative programming.