Six specialized paths. All built on real WNY sports coverage, real assignments, and real portfolio work. Choose a track — or talk to us about what fits you best.
The core craft of sports media. Students learn to cover games from start to finish — from the press box to the interview, from the first note to the published story. Every piece they write goes through an editorial process and is published under their byline on 5-Star Sports Media.
Visual storytelling is half the story. Photography students learn to capture the moments that define a game, a season, and a career — then present them professionally with the context and ethics that matter in sports media.
The on-camera and on-mic skills that separate good communicators from great ones. Broadcasting students learn how to prepare for an interview, how to ask the right questions in the moment, and how to present themselves and their subjects with confidence and professionalism.
The business of telling stories professionally. PR students learn how organizations, sponsors, and media work together — and how to communicate on behalf of a brand, team, or community figure in a way that builds trust and reputation.
The fastest-growing lane in sports media. Digital students learn to create content that drives engagement, builds audiences, and tells sports stories in the formats modern fans actually consume — while learning the responsibility that comes with a platform and a following.
The big picture. Business and leadership students explore how sports create careers, communities, and economic opportunity — and learn to tell the stories of the people who built something beyond the game. This track is home to the Legends Spotlight and the "Beyond The Game" series.
Founding Class pricing is reduced to build the program and create our first success stories. Every student in the founding class becomes part of the Academy's origin story.
For our first cohort of Academy students — reduced or waived to build real success stories.
A full 8-week program covering one complete track with assignments, feedback, and published work.
Field assignments, mentor feedback sessions, and expanded portfolio development.
Year-round assignments, portfolio reviews, and recommendation letter consideration for committed students.
Local businesses can sponsor student media training, equipment, scholarships, and community coverage. Your brand is associated with youth development, community impact, and the future of WNY sports media.
Fund one student's full program — scholarship, training, and field assignments.
Sponsor an entire track — naming rights, brand presence, and student acknowledgment.
Support the Beyond The Game and Legends coverage that connects sports to career and community.
Put your brand on the sidelines as students cover live WNY sporting events.
Create a named scholarship fund ensuring no student is turned away for financial reasons.
Full presenting sponsorship of the 5-Star Sports Media Academy — the highest level of brand partnership.
Academy students create content that strengthens the entire Venuewise platform — every story connects athletes, coaches, organizations, and facilities across the ecosystem.
Applications are open for the Founding Class. Spots are limited — apply today and start building something real.
Apply to the Academy →