Listen "I'm Blind, I'm Deaf and I Want to Be a REF!?"
Episode Synopsis
For the last two seasons of basketball at my son's school, I've watched this gentleman run back-and-forth while relentlessly trying to keep pace with the unwavering energy of middle school boys. Little pay, evening hours and most importantly an onslaught of unhappy customers makes officiating a job that I had to know more about. Listen as this Pesotum-adjacent lifer talks about his own sports history from the beginning. He even includes present day full-circle moments with his children's athletic endeavors. He is my husband's cousin who I never got to truly know until this delightful sit down. We dive into his side hustle as an IHSA referee, diffusing situations on the court, in the stands and on the bench and how he keeps his cool. Chaotic, overstimulating and high-stakes, how does he keep all of the pressure from boiling over? Good, respected refs are in high demand and it's no wonder why. Officiating isn't exactly a glamorized position. Whether umping baseball or tossing flags on the football field, you are often the punching bag during losses and simply background noise during wins. Not a lot of thanks for the ones that truly allow us to play ball. I'd like to thank this episode's sponsor, Pixels by Emily. A gifted private Simply Santa session, keepsake artwork and a joyful memory will brighten many Christmas' this year. The more local businesses that sponsor, the more families will be eligible! If you would like to sponsor a lucky family or are in need of a session yourself, pixelsbyemily.com/santasponsorshipprogram to sign up.Thank you so much for listening! However your podcast host of choice allows, please positively: rate, review, comment and give all the stars! Don’t forget to follow, subscribe, share and ring that notification bell so you know when the next episode drops! Also, search and follow hyperlocalscu on all social media. If I forgot anything or you need me, visit my website at HyperLocalsCU.com. Byee.
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