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: 9/4/25

By Geoff Kimmerly
MHSAA.com senior editor

September 4, 2025

1. CROSS COUNTRY Ann Arbor Pioneer’s Natasza Dudek and Alma’s Ezekiel Baltierra won Shepherd Bruder Classic races against strong fields, with the girls race featuring multiple returning Finals champions – Livingston Daily Press & Argus | Athletic.net

2. BOYS SOCCER Maple City Glen Lake remains undefeated after downing Division 4 No. 8 Leland 3-1 – Traverse City Record-Eagle

3. CROSS COUNTRY Romeo swept Macomb Area Conference Red races at Stoney Creek Metropark – Macomb Daily

4. VOLLEYBALL Carrollton moved to 13-0 with a sweep of Bridgeport – Saginaw News

5. VOLLEYBALL Freeland, Beal City and Flint Powers Catholic all finished 2-1 at Freeland’s quad – WNEM

6. VOLLEYBALL Bay City John Glenn came back for a five-set win over Oscoda – Bay City Times

7. VOLLEYBALL Dearborn Heights Crestwood came back from down 2-1 to get by Taylor in five – Dearborn Press & Guide

8. VOLLEYBALL L’Anse swept Ishpeming Westwood on the road – Upper Michigan’s Source

9. VOLLEYBALL Cadillac opened its Big North Conference schedule with a sweep of Sault Ste. Marie – Cadillac News

10. VOLLEYBALL Traverse City Central started BNC play with a sweep of Alpena – Up North Live