The South Puget Sound League (SPSL) 4A values the important role of media in highlighting the dedication and achievements of our student-athletes, coaches, and communities. To ensure fair, safe, and professional coverage at SPSL 4A events, the following expectations apply across all member schools.
WIAA manages media registration for state events including football semifinals – WIAA Media Resources Page
A. Authorized Media Access
- Media representatives must be affiliated with an established publication, broadcast outlet, or recognized online platform.
- School-based student publications (yearbook, newspaper, broadcast clubs) are welcomed as credentialed media.
- Freelance or independent photographers/writers will be considered only if their coverage is designed to benefit the entire event and both participating teams, not individual players or families.
B. Scope of Coverage
- Coverage should represent the full contest, including both teams, coaches, and the event atmosphere.
- Media should highlight the collective efforts of student-athletes and avoid focusing exclusively on a small number of individuals.
- Hired photographers or videographers working to cover individuals or a small group are not considered media and will not be granted credentials.
- Live broadcasts are not permitted without permission from the host school.
C. Professional Standards
- Media representatives are expected to act respectfully and professionally at all times.
- Interviews with student-athletes may only be conducted after contests and with the approval of the coach or school designee.
- Media are prohibited from entering locker rooms, team benches, or other restricted areas.
D. Safety and Venue Operations
- Media must remain in designated media areas (sidelines, end zones, press box, or other assigned locations).
- Media representatives are expected to follow the directives of officials and event staff. Failure to do so will result in loss of credentials and removal from the sidelines and/or facility
- Equipment may not obstruct walkways, exits, or spectator sightlines.
- Flash photography and drones are prohibited unless explicitly approved by the host school.
E. Credentialing Process
- Media credential requests must be submitted to the host school athletic office at least 24 hours in advance. An online form may be available for on-site registration.
- Approved applicants must wear their media credentials at all times.
- Approved applicants may be issued a credential or sideline pass by the host school or venue, which must be visible at all times.
- SPSL 4A and host schools reserve the right to revoke credentials at any time for violations of this policy.
F. Equity and Representation
- Media are strongly encouraged to provide equitable coverage of both girls’ and boys’ programs.
- Efforts should be made to reflect the diversity of student-athletes and communities across SPSL 4A schools.
Contact the building athletic director at the host school for more information.
