2026 State Soccer Tournament Media Information
IGHSAU Policy on State Championship Event Media Credentials
The Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union (IGHSAU) shall grant, at the discretion of its management, media access credentials for state championship events to radio, television, print, and online media. These credentials will be issued to organizations or companies that routinely provide coverage during regular season play for participating teams or individuals, or that consistently offer general coverage of the sport. The number of credentials issued per organization or company shall be determined by IGHSAU management.
Please note: Private talent evaluators, photography studios, scouting services, and similar entities will not be granted access to areas restricted for credentialed media.
Media Credential Requests
Media planning to cover the 2026 State Soccer Tournament at Iowa State University must complete the media application by clicking here. The deadline to request credentials is Friday, June 5 at 5:00 p.m.
The IGHSAU All-Tournament Media Pass will be honored at the tournament. All other media representatives must submit their requests by the deadline above. The IHSAA media badge is not valid at IGHSAU state tournaments.
Media Credential Requests For Students & School Media
Each state qualifying school may request credentials for one student and one school-employed media representative (e.g., videographers, social media staff, yearbook or student newspaper personnel). A school administrator (Athletic Director or advisor) must email the names to Jason Eslinger at jasoneslinger@ighsau.org by 4:30 p.m. Friday, June 5. Note: Soccer coaches may not request media. School media may request credentials by clicking here.
NOTE: IHSAA student media credentials are not valid at IGHSAU state tournaments.
Radio Broadcast Information
Radio stations are permitted to originate live broadcasts of the 2026 State Soccer Tournament for a fee of $150 per match. Payment must be made at the press entrance before the broadcast.
Stations are encouraged to bring tables and extension cords, as power sources, Wi-Fi, and seating are very limited.
Note: Live video streaming is prohibited at all IGHSAU state tournaments.
Photographer Guidelines
All photographers must remain within designated sideline areas while matches are in progress. Credentials for photography are limited to media outlets only. Private photography studios will not receive media credentials.
Media Workspaces and Venue Information
There will be designated media workspaces at:
- Lied Recreational Fields (First Round and Semifinal Matches)
- Cyclone Sports Complex (Championship Matches)
At the Lied facility, an indoor workspace (shared with soccer officials) will also be available in the Lied Recreation Athletic Facility.
Parking at both venues is free.
Facility Maps and Directions
Please click the links below for maps and facility layouts:
Wi-Fi and Power Access
Wireless access will be available at both venues; however, we cannot guarantee signal strength.
We strongly recommend using personal hotspots. Wi-Fi access points will be located along the south fence of both fields, near the media tent.
Please bring your own power strips, extension cords, and other power sources, as none will be provided by Iowa State.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions. We look forward to seeing you in Ames next week!
Jason Eslinger
Senior Associate Director
Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union
