The Anne Arundel County Board of Officials for girls lacrosse have selected Annapolis High School as recipient of the group's first sportsmanship plaque.

The voting, done by the 14 officials who worked county games this spring, was based on a system where points were given for the local varsity and junior varsity teams, coaches and fans who best exhibited sportsmanship.

"It seems in the papers this year, besides the highlights, we've read of a lot of problems with sportsmanship in girls lacrosse," saidBonnye Lang, the commissioner of the board of officials.

"We wanted to highlight the teams who exhibit the types of sportsmanship thatshould be present; to recognize them for their sportsmanship and self-control during games.

"We're hoping that by recognizing this good aspect, more teams will strive for that part of the game, and not just skills and wins. And we're hoping other sports will pick this up."

Sue Chittim coaches the Panthers' varsity team, while Patti Dages works with the junior varsity.

The plaque was presented at last night's Annapolis sports banquet.