In the fast-paced world of sports, staying ahead of the competition is about more than just athletic performance. Whether you’re announcing a game-winning trade, unveiling a new sponsorship, or promoting a charity event, communicating effectively with the media is essential. A well-crafted sports press release serves as a powerful communication tool to get your story out to the public, journalists, fans, and stakeholders.
In this blog, we’ll explore the components of a successful sports press release, break down a real sports press release example, and offer a step-by-step guide on how to craft your own. Whether you’re a PR professional, sports marketer, or team representative, this guide will help you master the art of sports communication.
Table of Contents
What Is a Sports Press Release?
A sports press release is a formal statement delivered to members of the media for the purpose of announcing something newsworthy in the sports industry. These releases can cover a variety of topics:
- Team or player announcements
- Sponsorship deals
- Event promotions or game schedules
- Injuries and player health updates
- Charity or community involvement
- Staff or coaching changes
The objective of a sports press release is to present key information in a concise, engaging, and newsworthy way that encourages journalists to cover the story.
Key Elements of a Sports Press Release
Before we walk through a sports press release example, let’s examine the essential parts of a press release that should be included:
1. Headline
Your headline should be strong and compelling. It should immediately inform the reader of the announcement while drawing their attention.
2. Subheadline (optional)
This provides a little more context and supports the headline. It’s helpful for providing added detail.
3. Dateline
The city where the release is being issued and the date.
4. Introduction Paragraph
The opening paragraph is critical—it answers the who, what, when, where, and why of the news. Make it impactful.
5. Body Paragraphs
The second and third paragraphs offer background, quotes from key individuals, and other relevant details that support your story.
6. Boilerplate
A standard paragraph at the end describing the organization, team, or league issuing the press release.
7. Contact Information
Name, phone number, and email address of the media contact.
Sports Press Release Example
Here is a sample sports press release example that you can use as a reference or template for your own:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New York City, NY – August 15, 2025
New York Titans Sign Three-Time All-Star John Carter in Blockbuster Deal
The New York Titans announced today the signing of veteran shooting guard John Carter in a four-year, $88 million deal, bringing one of the league’s most celebrated players to the Big Apple.
Carter, a three-time All-Star and Olympic gold medalist, brings elite scoring ability and veteran leadership to a Titans team aiming for a deep playoff run. Carter averaged 24.6 points per game last season and is widely considered one of the most efficient perimeter shooters in the league.
“We are thrilled to welcome John Carter to the New York Titans family,” said General Manager Carla Reynolds. “His dedication, work ethic, and championship mindset align perfectly with our organization’s vision for the future.”
The deal marks a pivotal moment for the franchise as they build a competitive roster around rising star point guard Devin Michaels and defensive anchor Chris Rollins. With Carter’s arrival, the Titans solidify their status as contenders in the Eastern Conference.
Carter will be officially introduced to fans and media at a press conference on Friday, August 18, at Madison Square Garden.
About the New York Titans
The New York Titans are a professional basketball team in the National Basketball Association (NBA), dedicated to delivering championship-caliber basketball and community engagement to fans in New York and beyond.
Media Contact:
Jennifer Lopez
Director of Public Relations
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (212) 555-0198
How to Write a Sports Press Release That Stands Out
A good press release is more than just news—it’s a strategic communication asset. Here’s how you can write your own, using the sports press release example above as inspiration:
1. Start with a Newsworthy Topic
Not every internal development warrants a press release. Consider if your announcement is genuinely newsworthy and if it would interest journalists or the public.
2. Write an Engaging Headline
Use action words and specifics. Instead of saying “Player Joins Team,” say “New York Titans Sign Three-Time All-Star John Carter.”
3. Focus on the 5Ws
Your first paragraph should answer the basic questions:
- Who is involved?
- What happened?
- Where did it happen?
- When did it occur?
- Why is it important?
4. Use Quotes Strategically
Include quotes from coaches, players, or executives to add credibility and emotion. Quotes help humanize the story and make it more shareable.
5. Maintain a Professional Tone
Sports news may be exciting, but the press release should remain professional. Avoid slang, jargon, or overhyped language.
6. Keep It Concise
Stick to 400–600 words. Press releases should be informative but to the point. Media professionals don’t have time to read pages of text.
7. Include a Boilerplate and Contact Info
Always close with a brief description of your organization and a way for the media to follow up.
Best Practices for Distribution
After writing your press release, getting it in front of the right people is key. Here are some strategies:
Use a Trusted Press Release Distribution Service
Platforms like IMCWire help you reach thousands of media outlets, sports blogs, journalists, and news agencies. Ensure your release reaches national and local outlets, as well as sports-specific media.
Email Key Sports Journalists Directly
Research relevant sports reporters and personalize your emails when sending them your release. Tailored outreach increases the chance of coverage.
Leverage Social Media Channels
Share the press release on your official social media platforms. Tag relevant parties like sponsors, athletes, and media outlets.
Post on Your Official Website
Every press release should live on your organization’s newsroom or blog section, just like this article on the IMCWire Official website.
Sports Press Release Example for an Event
To further illustrate, here’s another brief sports press release example for an event:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Los Angeles, CA – September 1, 2025
LA Galaxy Hosts Youth Soccer Festival in Partnership with Adidas
The LA Galaxy will host its annual Youth Soccer Festival on Saturday, September 10, at Dignity Health Sports Park, presented in partnership with Adidas. The all-day event will feature youth soccer clinics, special appearances by Galaxy players, food trucks, and giveaways.
“This festival is about more than just soccer—it’s about inspiring the next generation of athletes,” said event organizer Mia Thompson.
Admission is free, and the event is open to kids ages 6–14. The first 1,000 attendees will receive a free Adidas soccer kit.
About LA Galaxy
Founded in 1996, LA Galaxy is one of the most decorated clubs in Major League Soccer and remains committed to excellence both on and off the field.
Media Contact:
Robert Chan
Public Relations Officer
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (310) 555-0481
Final Tips for Writing Your Sports Press Release
- Proofread thoroughly to avoid errors that can damage your credibility.
- Include multimedia like high-res photos or videos if your distribution service supports them.
- Write for your audience—both journalists and fans.
- Stick to AP style guidelines to make it easier for editors to use your release as-is.
Conclusion
A sports press release is a crucial tool in the world of sports communication. Whether you’re announcing a new player, a major win, or a local event, your release should be clear, engaging, and newsworthy. Using a detailed sports press release example like the ones above can help you create impactful and professional announcements every time.
IMCWire provides distribution services designed specifically for sports organizations, teams, and athletes looking to make headlines. With our vast network of media connections, we help ensure your story gets seen where it matters most.
Let your next sports announcement start here—with the right press release and the right distribution partner.
