Interview request rejected by team. What's next?

It's true. Some media relations folks are great, but most of them are utterly worthless (I won't name names). I discovered long ago that if it's a one-time thing, you'll have better luck going through the family than the SID.

 

Professional organization's media departments are some of the worst I've ever had to deal with for stuff like this. While some have been utterly fantastic to work with, a couple have been unbelievably difficult. The fact that this particular organization has suddenly turned a cold shoulder may indicate the organization is about to trade or dump him, or at least does not value him. On the other hand, it could just be that the media relations people don't see any value in the market your story would appear in so they don't care enough to do anything to help you. That's pro sports for you in a nutshell. It's all about the Benjamins for most of them.

But, again, there are a few professional organizations that treat all media wonderfully and work hard to accommodate them.

My advice would be to work all the angles already suggested: his friends, family, former coaches at the local high school and university, etc. Get a hold of his parents. They'll help you the most. And who really cares about getting a local photo? Run something the team can send you or run something from the AP wire. Surely you guys have an archive of photos of this guy or you at least save the ones that come across now, right? You don't have to go to a game and shoot him. Even if you do, hire a stringer that is already shooting that team for another outlet. Tell them what you want and they'll get it for you for $75 to $100.

Don't take any of it personal. The pro team is treating you like shit just like they probably treat 90 percent of the media like shit. The ones they fear are the ones they cater to.

 

1. Talk to the agent.

2. If he's involved in any kind of charity (even a shame thing for tax purposes), he will inevitably have a publicist. This person can be helpful.

3. Don't email the sports information people anymore. Pick up the phone. Much harder to blow you off if you get them on the phone. At least then you'll get a better explanation.

4. Every single sports team has locker room availability. If you've been trying for like a year, and it's important, just go to that road game that's closest to your city. Tell the media relations person you're coming and are hoping to get some time to talk with him at the shootaround, batting practice, etc. Kind of hard to get blown off when you're right there.

5. Pitch an angle that's a little better than "He has close ties to our area." Do a bunch of reporting beforehand with family, friends, etc., and see if a more specific angle emerges that might be more appealing to him or his agent.