Local Media Faces Challenges from MSHSAA Coverage Fees

The Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) has introduced a new coverage fee of $500 that could significantly impact local media outlets. This decision has raised concerns among parents and community members, who rely on these smaller platforms to stay informed about school events, including sports and performances.

Impact on Local Media Outlets

As a parent of a high school student, Ronald Kinney from Desloge has voiced his concerns in a letter to the editor. He highlights how local media, such as The Barn, have historically played a crucial role in connecting families with their children’s achievements. The new fee primarily targets photographers, but its broader implications affect small, community-focused outlets that operate on limited budgets and rely heavily on volunteers.

Kinney points out that while MSHSAA may require resources to function, imposing such high fees creates significant barriers for local media. These outlets are not profit-driven; their mission is to foster community engagement and celebrate student accomplishments. By prioritizing revenue through fees, MSHSAA risks alienating the very communities it aims to serve.

Concerns Over Accessibility and Community Engagement

The introduction of this fee raises questions about access to high school athletics and activities. Many families, particularly those unable to attend events in person, depend on local media broadcasts to remain involved in their children’s lives. Kinney argues that limiting access for smaller outlets is detrimental to community participation.

“High school athletics and activities are about students, families, and community—not revenue,” Kinney stated. “A system that encourages coverage without prohibitive costs aligns far more closely with the spirit of high school activities: participation, engagement, and celebration.”

He stresses that larger media companies will find it easier to absorb the new costs and may even profit from paywalled broadcasts, leaving smaller outlets struggling to cover local games. This disparity creates an uneven playing field that undermines the community-focused mission of high school sports.

In conclusion, Kinney calls for MSHSAA to reconsider its fee structure. By supporting local media rather than imposing financial constraints, MSHSAA can help ensure that students, families, and communities remain connected. As the discussion continues, the focus should remain on celebrating student achievements and fostering inclusive engagement within local communities.