The Maryland Public Secondary Schools Athletic Association (MPSSAA) is declaring the week of April 15-20 as Spring Sport Officials Appreciation Week to thank and bring attention to the hard work and dedication of the nearly 5,500 MPSSAA registered sport officials in the state of Maryland.

Developed by the MPSSAA Sportsmanship Committee during the 2021-2022 school year, the Spring Sport Officials Appreciation is part of a series of seasonal recognitions celebrating registered sports officials throughout the 2023-2024 school year. Our spring celebration will recognize those officials and umpires that serve the sports of baseball, softball, lacrosse and track and field.

The MPSSAA is requesting all member school communities, including but not limited to athletic directors, coaches, student-athletes, school administration, and athletic program supports to assist us in recognizing all MPSSAA registered sports officials during these weeks by highlighting actions that would thank officials for their dedication and involvement in interscholastic athletics.

Member schools have been provided with a list of activities they can use to show their appreciation as well as a pre-contest public address announcement to be read before all athletic contests.  We also encourage everyone to participate in Officials Appreciation Week online by using the hashtag #ThankYouOfficials and tagging @MPSSAA_Org on X.

List of Recommended Activities

PA Announcements

MPSSAA Appreciation Week Logo

During the last two years, the MPSSAA community has been reminded of just how important interscholastic athletics are to our member schools, students and communities. These opportunities and lifelong memories would not be possible without the hard work of officials.  Do your part and “Thank an Official!” We thank you in advance for your participation in this worthy endeavor.

For more information on becoming an official, please visit the MPSSAA website at: Officials Association Central.