Your follower count is probably not the thing holding you back. Just because you have a lot of followers or you take “great photos” doesn’t earn you a media credential. A team, league, or media relations staff is much more interested in why you need access, who you’re covering the event for, and whether you can actually do the job professionally. A small Instagram account with a REAL assignment and a solid portfolio can make MORE sense than a huge account with no legitimate reason to be there. Don’t build followers just to chase a pass. Build work, relationships, assignments and credibility. The credential should not be the goal, a career as a sports photographer should be the goal, the pass is just the first steps. Good luck.