Why be an Official? (Grand Rapids Press)

January 25, 2012

The Grand Rapids Press' Jane Bos tells the story of some of the most valuable, yet often-criticized people who help make our games go -- the officials enforcing the rules. 

Consider this interesting point: On a Tuesday or Friday, the O-K Conference must come up with 150 officials to work its basketball games. And it, like most if not all leagues, always is looking for more.

She also explains how another former Press sportswriter, Howie Beardsley, got into the reffing game.

Check it out:

"Why West Michigan high school referees say you should consider wearing stripes"

Turner vs. Turner (Kalamazoo Gazette)

February 13, 2012

Occasionally, we see teammates facing off once the MHSAA individual wrestling tournament begins and everyone competes at his or her best weight instead of being juggled to create the best team line-up.

But much more infrequently do we see a situation like with the Turner brothers of Constantine, who faced off in a District final Saturday.

The Kalamazoo Gazette's Scott Decamp was there for older brother Aaron Turner's 9-0 heavyweight win over Andrew Turner, a year younger but 55 pounds heavier.

Constantine brothers Aaron and Andrew Turner finally get their turn to wrestle against each other