We’re officially four months away from the start of in-person judging for the 2026 Associated Press Sports Editors contest.
That means now is a great time to do two things: sign up to judge and, if you’re coming to Las Vegas, book your hotel room.
First and most importantly: We need judges.
Whether you plan to join us in Las Vegas or judge remotely, please sign up now to help evaluate some of the best sports journalism produced in 2026.
Sign up to be a 2026 APSE contest judge here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeEBSjlXkaKRCGlug4gP79WASxgcxsXeBgZgKjIcTamsBOhxA/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=106934267662759580932
APSE’s contest relies on sports journalists and editors volunteering their time, experience and expertise. Judging is also a chance to see outstanding work from news organizations across the country, exchange ideas with other journalists, and help recognize the work that stood out during the year.
Not sure yet whether you can make the trip to Las Vegas? Go ahead and sign up as a remote judge. If your plans change, it’s easier for us to switch you to in-person judging later.
Four months until Las Vegas
In-person judging begins Sunday, Feb. 28, 2027, at the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd. South, and runs through Thursday, March 4.
If you already know you’ll be there, now is also a good time to reserve your room.
APSE’s hotel rates are:
- Saturday, Feb. 27: $125
- Sunday, Feb. 28, through Thursday, March 4: $70 per night
- Double occupancy is an additional $10 per night.
The prices shown through APSE’s booking link include the resort fee. Book by Feb. 6 to receive the APSE rate.
Book your room at the South Point here: HTTPS://BE.SYNXIS.COM/?HOTEL=11548&ARRIVE=2027-02-27&GROUP=APS0227&ROOMS=1&SRC=APS0227
You can also book through the hotel using the group code APS0227.
Booking early is encouraged. The Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament will also be in Las Vegas that week, so rooms could become harder to find as February approaches.
Four months might sound like plenty of time, but contest judging will be here quickly. Sign up now to judge, and if Las Vegas is in your plans, get your room booked too.
Direct questions about judging to Erik Hall. For questions about the Winter Conference or hotel arrangements, contact John Bednarowski.
