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Media & Storytelling
Youth Media Guidelines
Guidelines for youth participants covering MLS games and Fieldtalk Foundation events. All media participants must read, understand, and follow these policies before covering any event.
Professional Conduct
Required
- Treat all players, coaches, referees, and venue staff with courtesy and professionalism at all times.
- Follow all event rules and instructions given by Fieldtalk organizers without dispute.
- Represent Fieldtalk Foundation positively in all interactions and published content.
- Do not interfere with gameplay, referee decisions, or team operations while covering an event.
Safety Rules
Safety
- Remain in designated and approved media areas at all times during events.
- Do not enter restricted spaces including locker rooms, team areas, referee zones, or any area marked off-limits.
- Do not approach or photograph minors in non-public areas without organizer approval.
- Report any safety concerns immediately to a Fieldtalk supervisor or event staff.
Supervision
Required
- Youth media participants (under 18) must have parent or legal guardian approval before participating.
- All youth participants operate under direct Fieldtalk Foundation supervision at events.
- A Fieldtalk-approved adult supervisor must be present with youth media participants at all times.
- Youth participants must check in and out with their assigned Fieldtalk supervisor.
Content Usage
Content
- Photos and videos submitted to Fieldtalk may be published on Fieldtalk platforms including the website, social media, and promotional materials.
- Credit will be given to the media participant when possible and appropriate.
- Content depicting violence, unsportsmanlike behavior, or identifiable minors in compromising situations must not be submitted or published.
- All submitted content becomes property of Fieldtalk Foundation for editorial and promotional use.
- Media participants retain the right to share their own approved work on personal portfolios with appropriate credit to Fieldtalk.
Acknowledgement: By participating in Fieldtalk Foundation media activities, participants and their parents or guardians acknowledge that they have read and agree to these Youth Media Guidelines. Violations may result in removal from the program. Acceptance is captured as part of the Fieldtalk Participation Waiver.
