Media Credentials

To provide qualified media organizations with appropriate access and workspace, the Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge Kick-Off Presented by Toyota, in coordination with ESPN Events and the participating institutions, has established the following credential policies.

• All requests must be submitted through the official credentialing system.
• Applications must be submitted or authorized by a sports editor, sports director, producer or photo editor.
• Each request will be evaluated individually based on the applicant’s assignment, outlet and history of original sports coverage.
• Membership in a media association, previous credential approval or access to other major events does not guarantee approval.
• By applying, each applicant confirms that they have read, understand and agree to the event’s media policies.
• Questions should be directed to A.D. Drew, Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge Media Coordinator, at [email protected].

• Credentials are limited to working media representing recognized organizations whose primary purpose is news gathering and original editorial coverage.
• Eligible outlets may include newspapers, magazines, wire services, websites, college football publications, television stations and radio broadcasters.
• Outlets must demonstrate sustained, original coverage of college football, local sports or a participating institution.
• Websites or platforms that primarily aggregate or republish content are not eligible.
• Media organizations that regularly cover a participating institution’s home games may receive priority, but approval is not guaranteed.
• National and international outlets will be reviewed individually based on available space and the scope of their coverage.
• Freelancers must have a confirmed assignment from an eligible outlet. The request must be submitted or verified by an editor or producer.
• Photographers and photo agencies will be evaluated individually, with priority given to organizations requiring images for immediate news coverage.
• Credentials are non-transferable and may be revoked at the event’s discretion.

• Cellphones, tablets and similar devices may not be used for photography or video on the field after kickoff.
• Only professional camera equipment will be permitted for field photography or video after kickoff.
• Credentialed photographers and videographers working from the field must wear an event-issued media vest.
• Media vest distribution information will be provided during credential pickup.

• In-game video clips may not be posted live or during the game on websites or social media platforms.
• Still photography is permitted, subject to field-access rules.
• Event images, audio and video may be used only for legitimate editorial coverage unless written commercial authorization is obtained from ESPN Events.
• Media-area internet service is for professional work purposes only.
• Credentialed personnel must maintain a quiet, respectful and professional environment in press boxes, workrooms and interview areas.
• Violations may result in the loss of internet access, field access or credentials.

Credentials will generally not be issued to:

• Internet or social media influencers
• Personal blogs or accounts without sustained original coverage
• Individuals seeking access for fan, family or recruiting purposes
• Freelance photographers or videographers without confirmed assignments
• Authors or filmmakers whose projects are not intended for immediate news coverage
• Non-news television or cable programming
• Telephone reporting services
• Gambling-focused outlets
• Professional team scouts
• Executives or staff members without game-day responsibilities
• Service agencies whose clients are already credentialed
• Podcasts or online outlets that do not meet the event’s editorial and coverage requirements

• ESPN holds the exclusive live and delayed distribution rights to the Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge Kick-Off Presented by Toyota.
• ESPN is the only organization permitted to transmit live from inside the stadium beginning 45 minutes before kickoff and continuing through the conclusion of its postgame coverage.
• Real-time streaming, live video, live play-by-play blogging from inside the stadium and GIF creation from live footage are prohibited.
• Radio broadcasts from inside the stadium must end 45 minutes before kickoff, except for authorized flagship and student stations.
• Television news organizations may use a maximum of three minutes of highlights within 48 hours following the game and only after the ESPN telecast has ended.
• ESPN game footage posted online is limited to three minutes, may be posted only after the game and must be removed or discontinued after the 48-hour news-use period unless additional rights are obtained.
• Footage may not be offered as a downloadable file or sold, shared or transferred to third parties.
• Score updates and limited statistical summaries are permitted. Real-time statistical play-by-play or data feeds are prohibited.
• Highlight use after 48 hours requires a rights agreement with ESPN Events.

• Credentials are issued only to individuals working on specific assignments for approved media organizations.
• Credential holders assume the risks associated with entering event and restricted-access areas.
• ESPN Events, the participating institutions and conferences are not responsible for personal injury, lost property or property damage.
• Credential holders grant ESPN Events permission to use their name or likeness when captured incidentally in event-related coverage.
• Credentials may be revoked for misuse, transfer, unprofessional conduct or violations of media, footage or digital-content policies.
• Policy violations may affect credential eligibility for future ESPN Events and Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge Kick-Off Presented by Toyota events.