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Suffolk Public Schools Athletic Event Media Credentials
Effective for all Suffolk Public Schools (SPS) athletic contests during the 2025–2026 school year.
Our Suffolk Public Schools media credentialing process is designed to safeguard students and staff while supporting accurate, responsible coverage of all of our SPS athletes. Through our process, we aim to achieve:- Controlled, appropriate access to our division's athletic games
- Protection of student privacy
- Clear expectations and boundaries for media personnel
- Maintaining a positive, professional relationship with our local media partners
Capacity Limits Per Event
- Outdoor events (e.g., football, field hockey, soccer, baseball/softball, etc.): up to 8 passes total
(4 TV, 2 newspapers, 2 visiting school outlets) - Indoor events (e.g., basketball, volleyball, etc.): up to 7 passes total
(4 TV, 2 newspapers, 1 visiting school outlet)
(SPS may reduce or increase available passes at its discretion based on safety, venue constraints, and event conditions.)
Your Suffolk Public Schools (SPS) Media Credential must be worn at all times during athletic events and must be accompanied by your current outlet-issued credentials. This requirement helps ensure a safe, professional, and organized environment for all participants and staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I Work From The Bench Area?
No. Bench areas (25‑to‑25 in football) and other team‑only spaces are restricted.
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Who Is Eligible?
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Working media only from recognized news organizations.
(Parents/guardians, influencers, fan pages, and freelance photographers without assignment from a recognized outlet are not eligible.) -
Applicants must be 18+ and provide proof of employment/assignment.
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Professional association membership and prior-year SPS credentials do not guarantee approval.
Student media: Students (e.g., yearbook, journalism, STAR interns) must be approved by their building principal.
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How To Request a Credential?
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Complete the SPS Athletic Event Credentials Application at least 48 hours before the event with:
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Outlet name and contact
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Game details (sport, date, home/away, opponent, venue)
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Names of staff who will attend (one name per pass requested)
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Roles (reporter/photographer/videographer)
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Wait for an approval email confirming quantity granted and pickup details.
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Day-of check‑in at the designated site to receive passes.
Visiting programs traveling 100+ miles may receive up to 2 visiting media passes, subject to availability.
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What Do I Bring To Pick Up My Media Pass?
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Government‑issued photo ID is required.
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Passes are uniquely numbered and non‑transferable (meaning you cannot lend your pass to another individual for game access).
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Pick‑up location for season distribution: SPS Operations Center (unless otherwise noted in your approval email).
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Return passes at the end of the academic year or when requested by SPS.
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Where Can Media Work?
Stadium:
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Allowed: Both sidelines from the 25‑yard lines to the back side of end zones.
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Restricted: Team bench areas between the 25‑yard lines on both sidelines.
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Remain outside team boxes and behind designated restraining lines.
Gymnasium:
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Positions will be designated by game management/DSA on site to ensure safe egress and clear player/official sightlines. Follow on‑site instructions at all times.
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Can I Share or Loan My Pass?
No. Passes are non‑transferable and tied to a specific individual.
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Do Prior Approvals Carry Over To The Next School Year?
No. Each school year is evaluated anew and prior credentials do not guarantee approval.
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Do Student Journalists Apply Here?
Students are approved by their building principal. Separate student passes are issued by the school.
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Need help?
For questions or to request credentials, contact: SPS Communications & Community Engagement at 757-923-5244.
