Updated: Oct. 1 2026
Our Mission
The Austin Sports Journal is committed to fair, accurate and journalism that informs and serves our communities across West Virginia and the surrounding region.
We believe strong journalism is built on trust, transparency, accountability and professionalism. Our reporting is guided by the principles of accuracy, fairness, honesty and editorial independence.
The Austin Sports Journal follows Associated Press style standards along with internal editorial guidelines developed specifically for our coverage.
Accuracy & Fairness
Accuracy is the foundation of our journalism.
We strive to verify information before publication through reporting, documentation and sourcing. When possible, we seek comment and perspective from all relevant parties in a story.
When mistakes occur, we correct them promptly and transparently.
Corrections Policy
The Austin Sports Journal does not remove published content simply because an individual finds it embarrassing or unfavorable.
However, we may update, correct or clarify stories when:
- factual inaccuracies are identified,
- important new information becomes available,
- or legal, privacy or safety concerns arise.
Substantive corrections or clarifications may be noted within the story.
Attribution & Original Reporting
Plagiarism and fabrication are strictly prohibited.
Information, quotes, statistics, photographs or reporting originating from another publication, organization or individual must be properly attributed.
Press releases, wire reports and external reporting used in coverage will be credited appropriately.
Anonymous Sources
The Austin Sports Journal prefers on-the-record sourcing whenever possible.
Anonymous or confidential sources may be used only in limited circumstances when the information is considered newsworthy, cannot reasonably be obtained otherwise and the source faces legitimate professional, personal or legal risk for speaking publicly.
We do not grant anonymity simply to allow individuals to attack, speculate about or disparage others without accountability.
While the Austin Sports Journal will make every reasonable effort to protect confidential sources, journalists may be subject to court orders or other legal processes that could seek disclosure of source identities or unpublished materials. Sources should understand that legal protections for journalists and confidential sourcing vary by jurisdiction.
Whenever possible, stories relying on anonymous sourcing should provide readers with enough context to understand why anonymity was granted and why the source is considered credible.
Conflicts of Interest
Editorial independence is essential to maintaining credibility.
Staff members and contributors should avoid personal, financial or political conflicts that could compromise — or appear to compromise — fair coverage.
Austin Sports Journal journalists and contributors may not accept gifts, compensation or favors intended to influence coverage.
Social Media Standards
Social media activity is considered an extension of our journalism.
Staff members are expected to conduct themselves professionally and avoid posting content that undermines the credibility, fairness or integrity of the Austin Sports Journal or The Sports Journals, LLC.
Opinion and analysis should be clearly distinguished from straight news reporting.
AI & Emerging Technology
The Austin Sports Journal may use artificial intelligence tools to assist with production, editing, SEO, research organization and workflow processes.
AI is not a substitute for journalism or editorial judgment. All AI-assisted content is subject to human review unless otherwise disclosed.
Additional information is available in our AI Policy.
Photography & Multimedia
Photographs, video and multimedia content should accurately represent events and may not be misleadingly altered.
Photo illustrations, edited visuals or archival imagery should be clearly identified when appropriate.
We strive to use images responsibly and with consideration for privacy, sensitivity and news value.
Photography and other images published by the Austin Sports Journal are either owned by the Austin Sports Journal or used with permission or under license. Images may not be reproduced, distributed, modified or otherwise used without prior written permission from the Austin Sports Journal or the respective copyright holder.
To request permission to use an image, please contact the Austin Sports Journal with the specific image and intended use. Approved use must include appropriate photo credit and attribution.
Additional information is available in our content use policy.
Community Standards
We are committed to covering sports in a way that reflects the communities we serve with fairness, professionalism and respect.
Coverage decisions are based on editorial judgment, news value and audience relevance – not outside influence.
Contact
Questions regarding editorial standards, corrections or ethics concerns may be directed to:
Austin Sports Journal
The Sports Journals, LLC
madams@austinsportsjournal.com.
