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"

Today in the MHSAA: 12/2/25

By Geoff Kimmerly
MHSAA.com senior editor

December 2, 2025

1. BOYS BASKETBALL Marion opened this season with a 44-43 win over McBain Northern Michigan Christian – Cadillac News

2. BOYS BASKETBALL Mancelona edged Kalkaska 65-61 in their season opener – Traverse City Record-Eagle

3. BOYS BASKETBALL Pinconning started off in a big way with a 63-44 victory over Bay City Central – Bay City Times

4. BOYS BASKETBALL Bridgeport opened with a 61-39 win over Kingston under first-year coach Alton Sanders – Saginaw News

5. BOYS BASKETBALL Bear Lake opened with a 67-46 win over Harbor Springs – Manistee News Advocate

6. BOYS BASKETBALL Lake Leelanau St. Mary opened with a win, 56-46 over Kingsley – Up North Live

7. BOYS BASKETBALL New Haven and River Rouge were among season-opener winners from Metro Detroit – Detroit News

8. BOYS BASKETBALL Saginaw Swan Valley, Birch Run and Carrollton were among other Saginaw-area winners on opening night – WNEM