The Lt. Col. Cecil Lynn's
Coin Toss
Honoring a Legacy: The Lt. Col. Cecil A. Lynn Jr. Commemorative Coin Toss Initiative
In a heartfelt tribute to Lt. Colonel Cecil A. Lynn Jr.—a revered U.S. Air Force officer and dedicated sports official—the New Mexico Activities Association (NMAA) introduced a commemorative coin toss initiative. This initiative celebrates Col. Lynn’s unwavering commitment to service, mentorship, and the advancement of education-based athletics across New Mexico.
The Lynn family commissioned a two-inch bronze coin to honor Col. Lynn’s multifaceted contributions. The coin’s obverse features Col. Lynn in his military uniform, while the reverse displays the NMAA logo alongside symbols representing the sports he officiated: basketball, football, baseball, softball, and volleyball. This tangible tribute embodies his dual passions for military service and athletic mentorship.
To perpetuate his legacy, the family donated 1,500 of these coins to the NMAA. These coins are distributed to high school sports officials statewide, serving as both a practical tool for game commencements and a lasting reminder of Col. Lynn’s influence.
Since their introduction, these commemorative coins have been utilized in various sporting events, including football games and volleyball matches throughout New Mexico. The initiative has even extended beyond state lines, with the coin being featured in tournaments across Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and Hawaii. This widespread adoption underscores the profound impact of Col. Lynn’s legacy on the broader athletic community.
Col. Lynn’s sister, Betty Lynn, encapsulated the family’s intent:
in the state as a way to honor my
brother’s love of service and his love of sports."
This sentiment reflects the family’s dedication to ensuring that Col. Lynn’s values continue to inspire current and future generations of sports officials.
Calling All Referees!
Honor Lt. Col. Cecil Lynn Jr. with a Commemorative Coin Toss
Join us in celebrating the enduring impact of Lt. Col. Cecil A. Lynn Jr. by incorporating the commemorative coin into your game-day rituals. Here’s how you can participate:
Elevate the Coin Toss: Use the specially minted two-inch bronze coin, featuring Col. Lynn’s image and the sports he officiated—basketball, football, baseball, softball, and volleyball—to start your games with purpose.
Inspire Student-Athletes: Demonstrate the values of integrity, leadership, and service that Col. Lynn championed throughout his nearly 45 years of officiating.
Support Higher Education: Your participation brings visibility to the Lt. Col. Cecil Lynn Memorial Scholarship, encouraging donations that help student-athletes pursue their college dreams.
Receive a Commemorative Coin: We are providing these coins to referees who wish to honor Col. Lynn’s legacy.
Interested in participating? Reach out to us through our Contact Us page to request your commemorative coin and become part of this meaningful tradition.
Support the Legacy
Complementing the coin toss initiative, the Lt. Col. Cecil A. Lynn Jr. Memorial Scholarship was established to support student-athletes pursuing higher education. Administered by the NMAA Foundation, this scholarship embodies Col. Lynn’s belief in the transformative power of education and athletics.
Through these initiatives, Col. Lynn’s enduring commitment to service, education, and sportsmanship continues to resonate, fostering a legacy that inspires and uplifts the New Mexico athletic community.
To honor Col. Lynn’s enduring impact and support future student-athletes, consider making a donation to the Lt. Col. Cecil A. Lynn Jr. Memorial Scholarship. Your contribution will help continue his mission of empowering youth through education and sports. You can visit our donations page here:
Donate to the Lt. Col. Cecil A. Lynn Jr. Memorial Scholarship.