WIAA Representative Assembly Approves 22 Amendments

04/23/202604/20/2026 by sbessette

WIAA REPRESENTATIVE ASSEMBLY APPROVES 22 AMENDMENTS

RENTON, WA (April 20, 2026) – The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) Representative Assembly voted to support 22 amendments—effective August 1, 2026—the Association announced Monday, April 20.

“We’re grateful for the extensive time, care, and collaboration our member schools brought to this amendment cycle. It’s the opportunity to be part of creating solutions, and the submission of 35 amendments is demonstration of the membership’s desire to be involved,” Executive Director Mick Hoffman said. “This is a result of months of leadership from athletic administrators statewide, and their work has helped shape outcomes that are representative, deliberate, and aligned with the priorities of our schools.”

ABOUT REPRESENTATIVE ASSEMBLY
The Representative Assembly is comprised of 53 school administrators—35 from high schools and 18 from middle-level schools—representing each of the six WIAA districts. The Assembly votes on proposed amendments, with voting delegates typically casting proxy votes aligned with the opinions of their league and WIAA District.

To pass, an amendment requires 60 percent approval from voting members. Specifically, 32 votes are needed for a high school/middle-level amendment to pass, 21 votes for a high school-only amendment, and 11 votes for a middle-level-only amendment.

VOTING RESULTS
A total of 35 amendments were proposed this year. Of those, 22 were approved and will go into effect on August 1, 2026, with the exception of ML/HS #23 as an advisory vote.

Advisory votes were held for ML/HS #21 and ML/HS #23 since both amendments knowingly violate Washington state law. Despite the results, the Association’s message remains consistent: The WIAA remains committed to following Washington state law and will continue to do so moving forward. If state law changes in the future, the WIAA Executive Board holds the authority to revise policies accordingly.

Additionally, two WIAA Executive Board positions were up for vote. Harlan Kredit (Lynden Christian High School, WIAA District 1) and Dwayne Johnson (Cape Flattery School District, WIAA District 3) were re-elected to their seats on the Executive Board.

To read the full language of each passed amendment, click the link below.

MEDIA CONTACT
Sean Bessette, Director of Communications

PASSED AMENDMENTS

AMENDMENT	RULE	SUMMARY	S	O
ML/HS #1	3.6.0	Member school fees will increase in 2027-28 by ten percent	47	6
ML/HS #2	3.6.0	Beginning 2028-29 member fees would increase by five percent in any year immediately following an auditor’s review establishing back-to-back years of a negative net income	36	17
HS #3	4.1.3	Would change the counting months to determine classifications from January 1 through May 1, and three times the October 1 count	33	2
HS #4	4.2.2	Would change the way that alternative education students are counted for classification purposes	24	11
HS #5	4.2.3	Would eliminate the socioeconomic factor as an automatic deduction in determining a school’s classification	27	8
ML/HS #7	7.1.0	Amendments must meet state law by the Winter Coalition. Advisory votes could be taken if the amendment does not meet state law on that date.	44	9
ML/HS #9	8.12.9	If fact finder is appointed, school will be responsible for all costs including legal fees if additional violations are found	45	8
HS #13	17.5.8	Would allow a coach a postseason meeting with each athlete on the team to be held within one month following the end of that team’s season	32	3
HS #15	18.4.1.1	A private school student could transfer to another private school without having to prove a double hardship	23	12
HS #16	18.7.0	Would clarify eligibility status of students participating in Running Start	27	8
ML #17	18.8.6.3.B	Would establish a probation period for ML students through Saturday of the third week of school	14	4
HS #18	18.8.4	Would establish the criteria to determine initial eligibility for the winter season	31	4
ML/HS #22	20.1.5	Any individual who is not a rostered player, coach or authorized game personnel who enters the competition space and engages in a verbal or physical altercation will be suspended for a minimum of 25% of the season.	46	7
ML/HS #23	20.1.4	*ADVISORY VOTE ONLY: Amendment would not be implemented under current State Law.* Schools have the ability to enhance penalties	47	6
ML/HS #24	20.0.0	If an individual receives a second ejection in the same sport or in a subsequent sport during the school year, the individual will be suspended for 40% of the season; for a third ejection during the school year, the individual would be suspended for one full calendar year from the date of the third ejection	40	13
ML/HS #27	31.1.0.1	Leagues could modify WIAA-approved playing rules for subvarsity contests	46	7
HS #28	39.2.0	Would increase the running clock time for varsity girls flag football to thirty-minute halves	31	4
HS #30	43.3.0	Would allow softball teams to play in one two-day tournament or two one-day tournaments and count each tournament as one of their 20 regular season contests	27	8
ML/HS #31	43.4.1.6	Would allow an on-deck fastpitch or slowpitch batter to warm up in either batting circle	44	9
HS #32	43.4.1.4	Fastpitch games would end if the losing team is behind by 15 runs after three innings, 12 runs after four innings, or by ten or more runs after five innings	26	9
HS #34	48.4.0	Would increase the individual wrestling match limit from 45 to 51	31	4
ML #35	48.65.0	Would allow a ML wresting tournament with a six-match limit in a one-day tournament once during the season	16	2

FAILED AMENDMENTS

AMENDMENT	RULE	SUMMARY	S	O
HS #6	4.2.6	Private high schools with an enrollment of 90 or more would be required to opt up to the next classification	13	22
ML/HS #8	7.7.0	Would limit the Executive Board’s authority to assess penalties or sanctions	12	41
ML/HS #10	11.1.0	Communication arts and leadership eligibility requirements would be the same as for athletes with the exception of a physical examination	8	45
HS #11	11.2.2	Cheer and dance/drill participants shall meet the same eligibility requirements as for athletes (including transfer)	13	22
HS #12	17.5.2	Leagues/WIAA Districts/WIAA could sponsor an all-league/WIAA District/State contest within eight days following the completion of the state championship in that sport	19	16
ML/HS #14	17.12.3	If a school has only one squad in a sport, the school must declare if the squad will be the varsity team or a subvarsity team	30	23
HS #19	18.12.2	Native American students who transfer from a reservation school to a contiguous public school would be varsity eligible	19	16
HS #20	18.12.4.3	F-1 Visa students would be eligible during the initial first level offered by that school	20	15
ML/HS #21	18.16.0	*ADVISORY VOTE ONLY: Amendment would not be implemented under current State Law.* Participation in girls’ sports would be limited to biological females	29	24
ML/HS #25	23.5.7	Before the conclusion of their second year of coaching, a coach must complete two designated NFHS coaches education classes	7	46
HS #26	25.1.6.3	Average monthly enrollment would be used to determine allocations	17	18
HS #29	42.3.5	Any soccer player with a second disqualification due to receiving two yellow cards in a season will be suspended for the following match	10	25
ML/HS #33	47.2.0	Volleyball jamboree limit would be three sets	28	25

Position Opening: Assistant Executive Director – Compliance and Member Engagement

04/17/2026 by sbessette

POSITION OPENING: ASSISTANT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR - COMPLIANCE AND MEMBER ENGAGEMENT

The WIAA is seeking applications for the position of Assistant Executive Director – Compliance and Member Engagement.

Salary:
Hiring Range: between $130,000-140,000 DOE. Benefits include employer paid medical, dental, vision, life insurance and 401k as well as 12 days annual paid sick leave and 24 days annual paid vacation in addition to holidays. Includes excellent fringe benefits.

Employee required to work from Renton office. Standard working hours are 7am-4pm M-F, including some evenings/weekends.

Minimum Qualifications – Only Applicants Meeting the Below will be Considered:

Bachelor’s degree required in Sports Management, Education, Law, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
Five to ten (5-10) years of experience in athletics administration, compliance, or a related role.
Experience as an educational administrator or athletic director.
Knowledge of WIAA eligibility rules/regulations/processes and middle school and high school structure/governance.
Experience working with a state athletic association or governing body (e.g., NFHS-related organizations).
Background in investigations or regulatory compliance.
Attentive to details, well-organized, ability to work independently, and ability to develop and implement short and long-range plans to meet Association needs.
Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
Ability to work under pressure in a team environment.
Experience working in Microsoft Office and Google Workplace tools.
Preference given to applicants with Washington State high school administration experience.

Responsibilities and Duties:
In all operational matters, this position reports to the Executive Director, and is responsible for the following:

Monitor and enforce adherence to Association rules and procedures requirements.
Provide guidance to member schools and stakeholders regarding rules and processes.
Monitor school, league, and WIAA District investigations into alleged rule violations.
Prepare detailed reports of findings and recommend penalties when necessary.
Develop and deliver compliance education programs for athletic directors, coaches, students, parents and school administrators.
Create guidance materials and provide ongoing updates on rules and policy changes.
Develop and monitor programming to ensure consistent understanding of compliance expectations throughout the Association.
Assist in drafting, revising, and updating Association rules and procedures.
Work proactively to develop educational programming and systems to help member schools avoid rule violations.
Provide timely and consistent interpretations of Association rules and regulations.
Ensure documentation complies with legal and Association standards.
Utilize data to provide suggested changes and to demonstrate effectiveness of rules and procedures.
Administer state events/sports/activities and prepare and provide reports to the Executive Board on various topics.
Assist in the organization and execution of board meetings, including overseeing procedural and governance rules.
Carry out all other duties as assigned.

To Apply Send the Following:

A one-page letter of application for the position to include the following:
- - A) Why you want to work for the WIAA.
  - B) Your experiences as they relate to the duties listed above.
A résumé (two pages maximum).
A list of three references.

Submit To: Leah Francis, Chief Financial Officer, via e-mail to jobs@wiaa.com with “Assistant Executive Director – Compliance and Member Engagement” in the subject line.

Timeline:

Application packets due via email by April 29, 2026. Applicants chosen for interview will be notified by May 4, 2026. Please do not contact the office regarding your status – if you are chosen for interview, you will be notified.
Interviews to take place at the WIAA offices in Renton on Monday, May 11, 2026. Please make yourself available on this date as this will be the only interview date. Position to remain open until filled.
Candidate to be available to start on or around August 1, 2026, as negotiated.

The WIAA is an Equal Opportunity Employer

WIAA Finalizes 35 Proposed Amendments for 2026 Representative Assembly

03/25/202602/03/2026 by sbessette

RENTON, WA (February 3, 2026) – The WIAA is excited to share the finalized proposed amendments to the WIAA Handbook, all of which were submitted by 5+ member schools or the WIAA Executive Board. Discussions around the language and content of each proposed amendment by the WIAA Representative Assembly took place during Winter Coalition on Monday, January 26th. At that point, amendments were be finalized for a vote in April.

VOTING TIMELINE
The WIAA Representative Assembly will vote on the proposed amendments from April 8-17, 2026.

ABOUT REPRESENTATIVE ASSEMBLY
The Representative Assembly is comprised of 53 (35 high school, 18 middle level) school administrators from each of the six WIAA districts. The Representative Assembly votes on the proposed amendments, and the voting delegates are typically proxy voters, aligning their vote with the opinions of their league and WIAA District.

For an amendment to pass, 60 percent approval is needed from voting members of the Assembly. A total of 32 votes are needed for a middle-level/high-school amendment to pass, while 21 votes are needed for a high school amendment to pass and 11 votes are needed for a middle-level amendment to pass.

MARCH 12, 2026 UPDATE: In an effort to maintain transparency and support informed decision-making, the WIAA has removed the following language from HS #5 and HS #26: “*If #5 passes, #26 would be moot.”

Following conversations within WIAA District meetings across the state, it was determined that the two amendments operate on different timelines and address separate mechanisms. Because of these distinctions, passage of HS #5 would not automatically negate the immediate implementation of HS #26. If HS #5 passes, it would take effect during the 2028-2032 classification cycle. HS #26, if approved, would take effect during the upcoming two-year allocation cycle, with implementation beginning August 1, 2026.

PROPOSED AMENDMENTS

AMENDMENT	RULE	SUMMARY
ML/HS #1	3.6.0	Member school fees will increase in 2027-28 by ten percent
ML/HS #2	3.6.0	Beginning 2028-29 member fees would increase by five percent in any year immediately following an auditor’s review establishing back-to-back years of a negative net income
HS#3	4.1.3	Would change the counting months to determine classifications from January 1 through May 1, and three times the October 1 count
HS #4	4.2.2	Would change the way that alternative education students are counted for classification purposes
HS #5	4.2.3	Would eliminate the socioeconomic factor as an automatic deduction in determining a school’s classification
HS #6	4.2.6	Private high schools with an enrollment of 90 or more would be required to opt up to the next classification
ML/HS #7	7.1.0	Amendments must meet state law by the Winter Coalition. Advisory votes could be taken if the amendment does not meet state law on that date.
ML/HS #8	7.7.0	Would limit the Executive Board’s authority to assess penalties or sanctions
ML/HS #9	8.12.9	If fact finder is appointed, school will be responsible for all costs including legal fees if additional violations are found
ML/HS #10	11.1.0	Communication arts and leadership eligibility requirements would be the same as for athletes with the exception of a physical examination.
HS #11	11.2.2	Cheer and dance/drill participants shall meet the same eligibility requirements as for athletes (including transfer)
HS #12	17.5.2	Leagues/WIAA Districts/WIAA could sponsor an all-league/WIAA District/State contest within eight days following the completion of the state championship in that sport
HS #13	17.5.8	Would allow a coach a postseason meeting with each athlete on the team to be held within one month following the end of that team’s season
ML/HS #14	17.12.3	If a school has only one squad in a sport, the school must declare if the squad will be the varsity team or a subvarsity team.
HS #15	18.4.1.1	A private school student could transfer to another private school without having to prove a double hardship.
HS #16	18.7.0	Would clarify eligibility status of students participating in Running Start
ML #17	18.8.6.3.B	Would establish a probation period for ML students through Saturday of the third week of school
HS #18	18.8.6.4	Would establish the criteria to determine initial eligibility for the winter season
HS #19	18.12.2	Native American students who transfer from a reservation school to a contiguous public school would be varsity eligible
HS #20	18.12.4.3	F-1 Visa students would be eligible during the initial first level offered by that school
ML/HS #21	18.16.0	*ADVISORY VOTE ONLY: Amendment would not be implemented under current State Law.* Participation in girls’ sports would be limited to biological females
ML/HS #22	20.1.5	Any individual who is not a rostered player, coach or authorized game personnel who enters the competition space and engages in a verbal or physical altercation will be suspended for a minimum of 25% of the season.
ML/HS #23	20.1.8	*ADVISORY VOTE ONLY: Amendment would not be implemented under current State Law.* Schools have the ability to enhance penalties
ML/HS #24	20.1.9	If an individual receives a second ejection in the same sport or in a subsequent sport during the school year, the individual will be suspended for 40% of the season; for a third ejection during the school year, the individual would be suspended for one full calendar year from the date of the third ejection
ML/HS #25	23.5.7	Before the conclusion of their second year of coaching, a coach must complete two designated NFHS coaches education classes
HS #26	25.1.6.3	Average monthly enrollment would be used to determine allocations
HS #27	31.1.0	Leagues could modify WIAA-approved playing rules for subvarsity contests
HS #28	39.2.0	Would increase the running clock time for varsity girls flag football to thirty-minute halves
ML/HS #29	42.3.5	Any soccer player with a second disqualification due to receiving two yellow cards in a season will be suspended for the following match
HS #30	43.3.0	Would allow softball teams to play in one two-day tournament or two one-day tournaments and count each tournament as one of their 20 regular season contests.
ML/HS #31	43.4.1	Would allow an on-deck fastpitch or slowpitch batter to warm up in either batting circle
HS #32	43.4.1	Fastpitch games would end of the losing team is behind by 15 runs after three innings, 12 runs after four innings, or by ten or more runs after five innings
HS #33	47.2.0	Volleyball jamboree limit would be three sets
HS #34	48.4.0	Would increase the individual wrestling match limit from 45 to 51
ML #35	48.65.0	Would allow a ML wresting tournament with a six-match limit in a one-day tournament once during the season

WIAA Finalizes Host Site and Format for Inaugural Girls Flag Football State Championships

12/04/2025 by sbessette

WIAA Finalizes Host Site and Format for Inaugural Girls Flag Football State Championships

RENTON, WA (December 4, 2025) – The WIAA Executive Board has approved Federal Way Memorial Stadium as the host site for the final rounds of the inaugural 2026 Girls Flag Football State Championships. The Association extends its appreciation to all schools and facilities that submitted bids. The depth of proposals reflects the strong statewide support for the continued growth of Girls Flag Football.

To accommodate the number of teams expected to qualify in the first championship year, the Executive Board also approved a one-year tournament format that will span two weekends.

FEBRUARY 7 : OPENING ROUNDS & QUARTERFINALS
The State Opening Rounds and Quarterfinals will be hosted at the closest approved site to the No. 1-4 seeds. This model mirrors the format currently used for State Baseball.

FEBRAURY 13-14: SEMIFINALS, CHAMPIONSHIPS, & 3rd/4th PLACE GAMES
Federal Way Memorial Stadium will host all final-round contests.

The WIAA Executive Board is expected to finalize official allocation counts, including State Tournament sizes for each classification, later this month.

For any questions, contact Bryn Langrock, Director of Marketing.

WIAA Announces State Slowpitch Softball Tournament Adjustments

10/09/202510/09/2025 by sbessette

WIAA Announces State Slowpitch Softball Tournament Adjustments

RENTON, WA (October 9, 2025) – The 2025 State Slowpitch Tournament is moving to Kiwanis Fields, located directly across the parking lot from the previous venue, Gateway Sports Complex. This location change is being made due to unforeseen field maintenance issues at Gateway Sports Complex. Kiwanis Fields are the three newer fields located in the northwest corner of Kiwanis Park, closer to Fair Avenue.

With this adjustment, the State Slowpitch Tournament schedule is changing from a four-field format to a three-field format, with corresponding time changes. The full, updated schedules can be found on the State Slowpitch brackets…

To be up to speed on everything State Slowpitch Softball, visit Slowpitch Softball Tournament Central.

For any questions, contact Jeneé James, Assistant Executive Director.

Tournament Programs

03/10/202610/07/2025 by sbessette

TOURNAMENT PROGRAMS

what's changing with tournament programs?

Beginning in Fall 2025, the WIAA will offer Tournament Programs exclusively online for free, and will no longer print and sell physical Tournament Programs.

Tournament Programs are now digital only and available through Issuu and each sport’s Tournament Central about two days before events, replacing all on-site printed sales.
The move aligns with the national standard, addresses capacity and efficiency concerns, and ensures statewide access for fans before, during, and after State Championships.
Fans can download programs at no cost and print them anywhere to continue their physical collections without interruption.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What’s changing with Tournament Programs?
The WIAA will now offer all Tournament Programs exclusively online for free. Printed programs will no longer be sold on-site at State Championships.

Why is this change being made?
This transition aligns with the national standard among State Associations. After surveying all 51 State Associations in Spring 2025, the WIAA found that most now publish their programs digitally. Moving online also helps reduce printing waste and allows fans to access programs before and after events.

What’s changing inside the Tournament Programs?
The content fans are used to isn’t going anywhere. Each Tournament Program will continue to include team rosters, brackets, tournament history, statistics, and records, along with other familiar features, just in a new, convenient format.

Where can I access a Tournament Program?
Programs are available through Issuu, a leading digital flipbook platform, and on each sport’s Tournament Central page.

How do I download a Tournament Program?
When viewing a program, users can download the PDF file directly by clicking on the download button on the bottom bar of icons.

When will Tournament Programs be made available?
Programs will be uploaded to Issuu and Tournament Central pages about two days before each State Championship event, making them available before events for the first time! Fans can now view programs before the events begin and revisit them anytime afterward. Once uploaded, they remain available throughout and after the State Championships.

Can I maintain my physical collection of Tournament Programs?
Yes! You can absolutely continue your collection. After downloading your Tournament Program PDF, you’re welcome to print it however you like: At a local print shop or office store, through an online service like Canva, or even on your home printer. You’ll have full access to your digital copy, so whether you want a traditional booklet or a poster, or something else, that’s completely up to you.

Will the printed programs ever return?
There are no current plans to return to printed, on-site program sales, as digital delivery better serves fans statewide and aligns with national practices.

Can I still get a program if I can’t attend the tournament?
Absolutely! One of the biggest benefits of going digital is that anyone can access Tournament Programs, whether you’re attending in-person or following from home.

Complimentary Passes

09/25/202509/17/2025 by sbessette

COMPLIMENTARY pASSES

Beginning in Fall 2025, the WIAA will offer complimentary passes to State Championships exclusively through the Association’s digital ticketing partner, GoFan. In the past, certain individuals could gain complimentary access by presenting their membership card, or another form of identification, at the Pass Gate. This process will no longer be accepted. Complimentary passes will only be accepted through GoFan to enter WIAA State Championships.

Review the resources on this page to ensure you’re fully prepared for this year’s State events. If you have any questions, please work with your affiliate association (WOA, WSCA, WSSAAA), and they will work with WIAA staff when necessary. Thank you for your continued support of the WIAA.

COMPLIMENTARY PASS ELIGIBILITY

WIAA Guests
WIAA Lifetime Pass
Affiliate Associations (*Based on Criteria)
- WOA*
- WSCA*
- WSSAAA*

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are complimentary passes?
Complimentary passes are distributed to eligible members of affiliate associations (WSCA, WOA, WSSAAA), WIAA Guests, and WIAA Lifetime Members, to receive access to WIAA State Championships at no cost.

What’s the change with complimentary passes?
The WIAA is now only accepting complimentary passes through GoFan, the Association’s digital ticketing partner, as a digital pass.

Why is this change being made?
The transition to digital passes is being made to make the venue entry experience more simple for complimentary pass holders, to make it easier for the WIAA and affiliate organizations to accommodate pass holders, and to declutter the Pass Gate at WIAA State Championships.

Can I transfer my complimentary pass?
No, complimentary passes are non-transferable.

How long is the complimentary pass active?
The complimentary pass is on an annual model. Once redeemed, it will remain available for the remainder of the school year

How do complimentary passes work for multi-day State Championships?
Complimentary passes must be used each day at a State Championship. Once used, it will be inactive for the remainder of the day, and can be used again the following day.

How do affiliate association members receive a complimentary pass?
Complimentary passes are distributed to eligible members of affiliate organizations as redeemable codes.

Does the WIAA office distribute these codes?
Affiliate associations are responsible for distributing codes to eligible members. The WIAA office will distribute codes for WIAA Guests and WIAA Lifetime Pass holders.

How do I know if I’m eligible for a digital pass?
Contact the leadership of your affiliate association for the terms of eligibility.

Where do I enter at WIAA State Championships with a digital pass?
For WIAA State Championships at the Tacoma Dome, Yakima Valley SunDome, and Spokane Arena, you will redeem your pass at the State Tournament’s Pass Gate. For all other WIAA State Championships, you will redeem your pass at the general entrances for spectators. See a detailed chart here: Complimentary Passes Access Chart

Where can I access a step-by-step tutorial on code redemption?
Watch the video below or read through the tutorial presentation here: Complimentary Passes Tutorial Presentation

REDEEM YOUR COMPLIMENTARY PASS CODE

FOR WIAA GUESTS & WIAA LIFETIME PASS HOLDERS

REDEEM: 2025-26 WIAA PASS

FOR ELIGIBLE WSCA MEMBERS

REDEEM: 2025-26 WSCA PASS

FOR ELIGIBLE WOA MEMBERS

REDEEM: 2025-26 WOA PASS

FOR ELIGIBLE WSSAAA MEMBERS

REDEEM: 2025-26 WSSAAA PASS

WIAA Launches Revamped Multimedia Policies

09/08/2025 by sbessette

WIAA LAUNCHES REVAMPED MULTIMEDIA POLICIES

RENTON, WA (September 8, 2025) – The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) is excited to launch a revamped multimedia policies document, addressing changes to credential qualifications, how outlets will apply to cover WIAA State Championships, the creation of seasonal credentialing windows, and much more.

“This is an exciting update to the media landscape of WIAA State Championships,” Director of Communications Sean Bessette said. “Over the course of the last six months, it’s been important to build an encompassing document that clarifies a number of important media-related factors for WIAA State Championships.”

The launch of these updated media policies includes…

NEW MULTIMEDIA POLICIES DOCUMENT

The new multimedia policies document can be located on the updated media resources webpage.

RESET OF APPROVED MEDIA OUTLETS

As of today, all previously approved media outlets have been reset. If your media outlet has previously received media credentials to WIAA State Championships, it will need to reapply to potentially gain media access this school year. If an outlet does not re-apply and receive approval, it won’t receive access to WIAA State Championships.

Going forward, the Association will operate on an annual model, where all approved media outlets are reset at the end of the school year.

Media outlets can submit their application for the 2025-26 WIAA State Championships now.

CREATION OF SEASONAL CREDENTIALING WINDOWS

The WIAA will now only accept media outlet credential applications during specified seasonal credentialing windows. Once approved, an outlet will remain approved for the remainder of the school year, barring any revocation of credentials.

2025-26 SEASONAL CREDENTIALING WINDOWS
FALL: September 8, 2025 – October 15, 2025
WINTER: December 16, 2025 – January 15, 2026
SPRING: April 1, 2026 – April 30, 2026

Credential applications will not be accepted outside of the seasonal windows. For context, if Media Outlet plans to have media credentials for State Football Championships in December, Media Outlet must apply to become an approved outlet during the fall seasonal credentialing window. If Media Outlet does not apply during the window, the outlet will be unable to register for credentials to State Football Championships, for example, as the next seasonal credentialing window does not open until all fall State Championships have concluded.

The fall seasonal credentialing window is open now. Media outlets can submit their application for the 2025-26 WIAA State Championships now.

CREDENTIAL QUALIFICIATIONS FOR “EMERGING MEDIA”

As the media landscape evolves, the WIAA acknowledges the growth of independent outlets, internet websites, freelancers, and similar media personnel. The revamped multimedia policies document outlines qualifications for media outlets that fall under the “Emerging Media” category.

UPDATED MEDIA RESOURCES PAGE

Coinciding with the release of the revamped WIAA Multimedia Policies, the WIAA has updated the media resources webpage. The update was designed to make navigation easier for media members and to make information more readily available.

Media members are encouraged to navigate through the updated media resources webpage to become familiar with the changes. As a reminder, the fall credentialing window opened today, and media outlets interested in gaining media access to 2025-26 WIAA State Championships can apply now.

For any questions, contact Sean Bessette, Director of Communications.

Media Credential Application

03/26/202609/03/2025 by sbessette

MEDIA CREDENTIAL APPLICATION

To obtain credentials to WIAA State Championships, media outlets must apply annually to become an approved outlet using the form below. Upon completion, the WIAA Office will be notified of the submission, and you will be contacted with an application result thereafter. Before submitting a media credential application, please review the qualifications and credentialing process in the WIAA Multimedia Policies.

WIAA CONTACT

Sean Bessette
Director of Communications

NOTE: The list of previously approved outlets was reset prior to the 2025-26 school year. If your outlet had been previously approved, the outlet will need to reapply as the Association transitions to an annual credentialing model.

SEASONAL CREDENTIALING WINDOWS

With the revamped WIAA Multimedia Policies, the Association will credential outlets during seasonal windows. The WIAA will not approve credential applications outside of the seasonal windows.

FALL: September 8, 2025 – October 15, 2025
WINTER: December 16, 2025 – January 15, 2026
SPRING: April 1, 2026 – April 30, 2026

Broadcaster Educational Opportunities

09/04/202509/03/2025 by sbessette

BROADCASTER EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

In an effort to enhance the streaming efforts of high school athletics and activities across Washington, the WIAA presents three free courses for all interested broadcasters. Broadcasters on the NFHS Network for WIAA State Tournaments must complete the three courses below before broadcasting a State Tournament contest. As a result of the growing importance of broadcasting high school athletics and activities, the WIAA partnered with Jamie Council, a prominent freelance broadcast journalist in Washington, to create the WIAA Broadcast Training Course.

The WIAA Broadcast Training Course contains basic, pertinent information in order to properly cover a WIAA State Tournament, or any high school contest or activity, for free. In contrast to other courses, the WIAA Broadcast Training Course is primarily focused on Washington-specific topics, and is designed to uplift broadcasters, expect accountability, and provide accessible professional development. Additionally, the NFHS created two courses: Play-by-Play Announcing & Implicit Bias. These courses emphasize two core elements of broadcasting and are found on the NFHS Learn website.

All courses will require participants to register and further information, including links to the courses, can be found below.

WIAA CONTACT

Sean Bessette
Director of Communications

wiaa broadcast training course

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Navigate to the link above
Create an Account or Login. If you are creating an account as a media member, register yourself as a non-school-related individual.
Click Course Enrollments on the left sidebar, then Browse Available Courses on the right
Scan the list of available courses until you find WIAA Broadcast Training Course.

Estimated Time for Completion: ~45-60 minutes

The WIAA Broadcast Training Course exists to help give high school athletes the best coverage while assisting broadcast professionals in their development. The WIAA wants to create opportunities for students and those passionate about serving high school sports. It is the WIAA’s hope to serve both entities with a required training course for all WIAA announcers. The hope is to put forth established expectations that the WIAA can expect accountability while also uplifting broadcasters and providing professional development.

nfhs learn: play-by-play announcing

Estimated Time for Completion: ~60 minutes

Play-by-play announcing is a key aspect when broadcasting a live game, providing vital insight to the moment-by-moment action of the sport, as well as developing stories behind-the-scenes. That is why the NFHS has created the course Play-by-Play Announcing. This course demonstrates how to professionally prepare for a game as a play-by-play announcer, how to successfully work with an analyst or reporter, how to use proper tone and inflection, and the important aspects of play-by-play announcing during a live broadcast. So, take the course Play-by-Play Announcing, available for free on the NFHS Learning Center.

nfhs learn: implicit bias

Estimated Time for Completion: ~60 minutes

Implicit biases are the automatic reactions we have toward other people based on our past learning and expectations. Studies show that Implicit Bias affects the experiences of students in school athletic and activity programs. The NFHS has partnered with Project Implicit to bring you this course, Implicit Bias. Studies support that there is a relationship between implicit bias and real-world behavior, which highlights the importance of being aware of and managing your bias. This course defines and illustrates examples of Implicit Bias and provides research on how it impacts our society.

Multimedia Policies

09/04/202509/03/2025 by sbessette

MULTIMEDIA POLICIES

The WIAA has launched revamped multimedia policies, an encompassing document that clarifies a number of important media-related topics for WIAA State Championships. These multimedia policies apply to all activities in which multimedia credentials and rights are granted by the WIAA. The WIAA reserves the right to administer and amend these policies at its sole discretion at any time. Violation of the following multimedia policies may result in a loss of credentials. All approved media agree to and commit to following these multimedia policies.

2025-26 POINTS OF EMPHASIS:

Outlets must apply annually for media credentials during three seasonal application windows. Upon approval, the outlet is approved for the remainder of the school year.
Rate cards for streaming, television, and radio rights are clarified.
Credentialing qualifications for “Emerging Media” have been established

WIAA CONTACT

Sean Bessette
Director of Communications

WIAA Launches Agreement with Varsity Sports Live as Community & Promotional Partner

08/22/202508/22/2025 by sbessette

WIAA LAUNCHES AGREEMENT WITH VARSITY SPORTS LIVE AS COMMUNITY & PROMOTIONAL PARTNER

RENTON, WA (AUGUST 22, 2025) – The Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) is excited to announce a new Community & Promotional Partnership with Varsity Sports Live and its platform, FinalScoreTV.

Through this partnership, Varsity Sports Live will highlight, celebrate, and strengthen school communities across Washington. FinalScoreTV will serve as a statewide platform to share stories from member schools and showcase the positive impact of high school sports and activities.

The platform is set to launch in November 2025, with coverage designed to encourage fans, families, and community members to fill gyms, stadiums, and fields in support of their local schools.

FOOTBALL, FLAG FOOTBALL & BASKETBALL COACHES:
Varsity Sports Live and FinalScoreTV want to hear from you. To have your team/school considered for highlighting and content development, answer a few questions on the form below. Submissions received by October 6 will have priority. Please fill out their survey at the following link: VARSITY SPORTS LIVE INTERVIEW FORM

wiaa

wiaa content

FALL

WINTER

SPRING

WIAA REPRESENTATIVE ASSEMBLY APPROVES 22 AMENDMENTS

PASSED AMENDMENTS

FAILED AMENDMENTS

POSITION OPENING: ASSISTANT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR - COMPLIANCE AND MEMBER ENGAGEMENT

The WIAA is an Equal Opportunity Employer

PROPOSED AMENDMENTS

WIAA Finalizes Host Site and Format for Inaugural Girls Flag Football State Championships

WIAA Announces State Slowpitch Softball Tournament Adjustments

TOURNAMENT PROGRAMS

what's changing with tournament programs?

COMPLIMENTARY pASSES

COMPLIMENTARY PASS ELIGIBILITY

REDEEM YOUR COMPLIMENTARY PASS CODE

WIAA LAUNCHES REVAMPED MULTIMEDIA POLICIES

MEDIA CREDENTIAL APPLICATION

SEASONAL CREDENTIALING WINDOWS

BROADCASTER EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

wiaa broadcast training course

nfhs learn: play-by-play announcing

nfhs learn: implicit bias

MULTIMEDIA POLICIES

WIAA LAUNCHES AGREEMENT WITH VARSITY SPORTS LIVE AS COMMUNITY & PROMOTIONAL PARTNER

435 Main Ave S | Renton, Wa 98057 | (425) 687.8585

Powered by: