To:       MSSADA Athletic Directors serving as MIAA Basketball Tournament Site Hosts
From:   Dennis Baker, MSSADA President

The MSSADA Executive Board writes to communicate its unreserved support of the Postgame Handshake Policy that will be required in all upcoming Basketball Tournament games.

Athletic Directors serving as site hosts are reminded of the priority of being visible and present on the court at the conclusion of each Tournament game.  The role of the host Athletic Director present with the game officials at the buzzer will lead to the successful implementation of the policy.

To assist in preparing spectators for the post game handshake, host school P.A. Announcers are asked to provide the following comment during the last 2 minutes of the Tournament game:

“May I kindly have your attention.  At the conclusion of this competition, student-athletes will participate in the ceremonial handshake, demonstrating respect for their opponent.  Spectators must remain off the basketball court.  Please remain in the stands until the handshake is completed and game officials have exited the competition area.”