Comal ISD welcomes credentialed media to cover our students, programs, and events. Our media credentialing guidelines are aligned with the University Interscholastic League (UIL) General Media Policy to ensure consistent, professional standards across all district events.
Network television affiliates and print/digital news organizations covering Comal ISD on a recurring basis may apply for an annual credential valid for the current school year (July - June). Single-event credentials are also accepted.
All requests must be submitted at least 48 hours before the event. Same-day requests cannot be accommodated.
Credentials grant access to the field and game/event area only. They do not provide access to the press box or any other restricted areas of the school or facility.
Comal ISD reserves the right to revoke credentials at any time, including for violation of any guideline listed below.
Media Credential Guidelines
Media credentials are available to verified representatives of:
- Licensed television and radio broadcast affiliates
- Daily or weekly newspapers and print/digital news organizations
- Online news outlets that provide original, regularly updated editorial coverage - consistent with UIL standards for internet media (outlets must be established legal entities that have covered UIL member schools for at least one full calendar year and produce original content with their own staff)
- Magazines covering scholastic or community interest topics
All applicants must present valid press or organizational photo identification at credential pick-up.
The following are not eligible for media credentials and are not permitted on the sidelines or field at any Comal ISD event:
- Parent-hired photographers or videographers, regardless of professional status or equipment
- Commercial photographers shooting for personal sale or non-editorial purposes
- Statisticians, recruiting services, or scouts
- Personal social media content creators (Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, etc.) operating without affiliation to a recognized news outlet
- Outlets or individuals associated with the promotion of alcohol, tobacco, gambling, or content inconsistent with the mission of interscholastic athletics
Only the following individuals are permitted on the sidelines or field at Comal ISD events:
- Credentialed media representatives (approved through this form)
- The designated team photographer
- Student journalists or their sponsor/teacher working in an official capacity for their school's yearbook or student newspaper/news publication
Photography Guidelines
- The use of electronic flash equipment - other than remote off-camera strobe flash - is strictly prohibited at all indoor events, including volleyball and basketball.
- Credentials will not be issued to any photographer whose images are intended for commercial sale. The sale of photographs taken at Comal ISD events is prohibited.
Filming / Video Guidelines
- Full contest recordings are not permitted. Footage must be used for news or highlight purposes only.
- Violations may result in immediate credential revocation.
Internet / Digital Outlets
Online outlets requesting credentials must meet the following standards:
- Must be a recognized legal entity in operation for at least one full calendar year
- Must have provided documented coverage of Comal ISD schools for at least one year
- Must produce original content with its own staff on a regular basis
- Must not be primarily a personal page, aggregator, or stats-only site
Newspapers
Newspaper credentials will be issued to reporters covering teams or events with a direct connection to their readership or circulation area. Outlets with no direct interest in the event may be denied credentials.
Radio
Radio stations providing live broadcasts are eligible for credentials. Stations must be in good standing with the school(s) they are covering and should have the school's permission to broadcast.
High School / Student Media
Student journalists working in an official capacity for a school's journalism program, yearbook, or student newspaper may request credentials through their school's administrator. Students issued school media credentials are not required to purchase a ticket to enter the event.
Annual Credential Option
Network television affiliates and established news organizations may apply for an annual credential covering all Comal ISD events for the current school year. Annual credentials must be renewed each year. Comal ISD reserves the right to revoke any credential - annual or single-event - at any time, for any reason.
Credential Pick-Up
Approved credentials will be available at the ticket booth on the home side of the venue. A valid organization photo ID is required. Credentials will not be mailed.
Approval Notification
All applicants will receive an email confirming approval or denial of their request.