The Maryland State Athletic Hall of Fame was established in 1956 to honor Marylanders for their accomplishments in sports. It is recognized by a resolution of the Maryland General Assembly as the State's official sports hall of fame.

Any individual born in the State of Maryland, or resided in the State of Maryland is eligible for election. Through their athletic achievements and significant contributions to the local communities and the State of Maryland have earned the distinction of at the sole discretion of the Board of Directors of becoming an "Adopted" Marylander is eligible for election.

All candidates must have participated as an athlete at the state, national or professional levels of sports competition is eligible for election.

In addition, the Board of the Maryland State Athletic Hall of Fame presents "The John F. Steadman Lifetime Achievement Award" to a Maryland citizen whose lifetime career in sports has brought honor and distinction to Maryland and its citizenry.

The Maryland State Athletic Hall of Fame (MDSAHOF) is a tax-exempt, charitable organization formed under Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code chartered by Congress and organized under the laws of the State of Maryland. Donations to the Maryland State Athletic Hall of Fame are tax-deductible as charitable contributions for U.S. federal income tax purposes. There are no donation limits or restrictions on contributions to the Maryland State Athletic Hall of Fame.