Broadcaster & Podcast Guidelines

AD sign-off required. All broadcast, podcast, and video content must be reviewed and approved by the submitting school's Athletic Director before it is published on the platform.

Submission queue. Uploads enter a moderation queue visible to the school's AD and Administrators. Content is not publicly visible until approved.

Turnaround. ADs are expected to review submissions within 48 hours. Unreviewed content is automatically flagged after 72 hours.

Rejection & revision. If content is rejected, the submitter receives a notification with the reason. Revised uploads may be resubmitted for review.

Game coverage only. All media must relate directly to sanctioned athletic events - games, practices, team activities, or recruiting.

No commentary on officials. Content must not criticize, name, or target game officials, referees, or umpires.

Sportsmanship. All content must reflect the values of sportsmanship, respect, and fair play. No taunting, profanity, or disparaging remarks about opposing teams, coaches, athletes, or fans.

Accuracy. Scores, stats, and factual claims in broadcasts and podcasts must be accurate and verifiable. Speculation should be clearly identified as opinion.

No gambling or odds. References to point spreads, betting lines, or gambling services are strictly prohibited.

Advertising. Sponsored content or advertisements embedded in uploads must be pre-approved by the school's AD and comply with Varsity Engine advertising policies.

Thumbnail. A representative still image or cover art is recommended. If not provided, the platform auto-generates one from the first frame.

Metadata. Every upload must include: school name, sport, opponent (if applicable), date, and a brief description (under 200 characters).

Copyright. Uploaders must hold all rights to the content or have explicit permission from rights holders. Use of copyrighted music, broadcasts, or third-party footage is prohibited unless properly licensed.

Music licensing. Background music must be royalty-free, licensed for digital distribution, or original. Popular commercial tracks are not permitted without a synchronization license.

Minor privacy (COPPA / FERPA). All content involves minors. Uploaders must comply with applicable federal and state privacy laws including COPPA and FERPA. Do not publish personal academic information, home addresses, phone numbers, or other private data of student-athletes.

Parental consent. Schools are responsible for maintaining current media-release consent forms for all student-athletes featured in published content.

Organization likeness & branding. Use of organization logos, trademarks, and branding in media content must follow the IS brand usage policy. Unauthorized commercial use is prohibited.

Liability. Uploaders and their schools assume full responsibility for the legality and accuracy of published content. Varsity Engine acts as a distribution platform and does not assume editorial liability.

Represent your school. Student broadcasters are ambassadors of their school. Content should reflect the standards your administration expects.

No harassment. Content targeting individuals based on race, gender, religion, disability, or any protected class will result in immediate removal and disciplinary referral.

Interviews. Interview subjects must consent to being recorded and broadcast. Coaches and athletes may decline without consequence.

Corrections. If an error is broadcast, a correction should be issued in the next episode or update and communicated to the AD.

First violation. Content removed; uploader notified with explanation; AD informed.

Second violation. Upload privileges suspended for 30 days; school AD and league office notified in writing.

Third violation. Permanent revocation of upload privileges. School may petition for reinstatement after one calendar year with AD sponsorship.

Severe violations. Content involving illegal activity, threats, or egregious misconduct may result in immediate permanent removal, law-enforcement referral, and Varsity Engine disciplinary proceedings.

Appeals. Uploaders may appeal a content removal or suspension in writing to the IS Media Review Committee within 10 business days. Decisions of the committee are final.