Championships -- It's Ravens Stadium!!!!!

By Sheldon Shealer

Ned Sparks confirmed at 1 p.m. today the Maryland high school football state championships will be held at Ravens Stadium this year.

He called from his cell phone while driving to the facility to sign the contract.

"This is very good for football and I'm grateful they have accomodated us," Sparks said.

The plan is to play two games Friday, Nov. 29, and two games Saturday, Nov. 30, at Ravens Stadium. Actual assignment of which classification will play on which day and at what time will not be announced until the state final pairings are set.

Traditionally, the state championships are held at Byrd Stadium on the campus of the University of Maryland. That facility is not available this year, which sent the MPSSAA scrambling for alternate sites. In the past, when Byrd has not been available, high school fields were used. This year, the Ravens stepped forward with a proposal that has won over the MPSSAA.

This is a one-year contract, but Sparks left the door open for future consideration. "We'll take it one year at a time," he said.

The Ravens have been very involved in Maryland high school football through supporting the state coaches association and allowing the use of its facility for the annual All-State banquet.

One point that has not been finalized is the issue of parking. Sparks said parking will be available at the stadium, and if there is a charge for parking, it will not be anywhere near the charge for professional events at the venue.

Morgan State and Towson were considered. The Redskins showed no interest. Navy was considered, but the two sides never got together.

The announcement marks the first time the state championships for football are being held in Baltimore.