Contests

As a new sports editor (at a small weekly paper), I recently realized our paper has likely never been submitted for section or story contests. I would like to change that; if the paper doesn't win anything, then at least I'll know our writers have had a chance.

Can anyone provide some information on different contests, web sites for more information, etc.?

Thanks for the help.

 

Well, the place to start would be with your state's press association, which surely has an annual contest.

 

I'm out! I'm out of the contest!

 

See if your newspaper group has an in-house contest.

 

http://apse.dallasnews.com/

 

There are also other ways to get constructive criticism to make your section better, which I assume is your goal. 1-on-1 critiques are an excellent method of receiving feedback in a supportive way.

PM me if you want to take this any further.

 

I would ask Smallpotatoes for his advice on this one, runningman. Send him a PM in case he doesn't catch this thread.

 

Sometimes I see designers comparing pages on deadline. Meanwhile, several stories in need of editing and headlines rest in the queue.

Those people seem to take those contests seriously. You may want to ask them for advice.

Taking it, on the other hand ...

 

I don't think weeklies are eligible, Shotty, unless they happen to be an AP member, which is rare.

 

A good national contest that most weekly newspapers enter is one by Suburban Newspapers of America.

http://www.suburban-news.org/