Press/Media Sideline Requests: 2025-26
Mater Dei High School is committed to supporting media coverage of our athletic programs while ensuring a safe and orderly environment for our students, athletes, staff, and fans. All press/media are reminded that the sideline can be dangerous. Mater Dei High School, the Diocese of Orange, and the City of Santa Ana are not responsible for any injuries that occur; members of the press/media are present at their own risk. We appreciate your cooperation in adhering to these guidelines as we work together to highlight the achievements of our student-athletes within the values and traditions of our Catholic community.
- All media must hold a current CIF-SS credential which is renewed on an annual basis.
- If you do not currently have a current CIF-SS credential, you may view the process and apply online at the link below.
- Credential requests are not guaranteed by CIF and the verification process can take several weeks. Please plan accordingly.
- Please direct questions specific to the credentialing process and timeline to Thom Simmons at CIF at (562) 493-9500.
Sideline Conduct and Safety Policies During Games
These policies are designed to protect student-athletes and coaches, maintaining a secure and distraction-free environment. Failure to comply may result in removal from the event and/or denial of access for your media outlet at future events.
- Permitted between the end zone and the 25-yard line on either sideline.
- Switching sides is allowed only at the end of a quarter or halftime.
- Must remain behind the designated slotted line and barriers at all times.
- Must be wearing assigned sideline media bib at all times (number is assigned and communicated with sideline pass approval)
- MAY NOT address players during pre-game warm up (unless interview is pre-approved)
- MAY NOT mic up student-athletes.
- MAY NOT address players or coaches during the game.|MAY NOT walk behind student-athletes or coaches during the game.
- MAY NOT enter the team box or huddle.
- Field access for press box–credentialed media will be permitted in the final five minutes of the game; please make your way safely to the south end of the field.
- Do not approach players or coaches until AFTER the coach meets with his team following the Monarch Pride Drill and Alma Mater (approx. 10-minute cool down).
- Complete the appropriate request form below and upload a copy of your current CIF-SS credential. (Forms open approximately one week before each game.)
- Media outlets are limited to two members per game.
- All requests are subject to approval; completion of the request form does not guarantee sideline access.
- Press members approved for sideline access will receive final confirmation from the Executive Director of Communication by 12 noon on game day of that week.
- Confirmation will include instructions for arrival and check-in.
- NEW for 2025–2026: Approved media granted sideline access will be issued a numbered white bib.
- Bibs must be worn at all times during the game.
- Bibs must be returned at the end of the game; failure to do so will result in loss of future sideline access/privileges.
