Call Something Ref: The Human Side of Officiating

Book Synopsis: In the world of sports, referees often find themselves in the spotlight but rarely in a positive one. Call Something Ref: The Human Side of Officiating takes you on a fascinating journey beyond the striped jerseys and into the lives of these often misunderstood figures. Written in a casual and engaging tone, this book reveals the humanity behind the whistle, capturing the untold stories of refs and shedding light on the relentless harassment they endure.

Through captivating storytelling, Call Something Ref sparks a much-needed conversation about respect, empathy, and sportsmanship. It challenges readers to reevaluate their perspective on referees, encouraging a more compassionate and understanding approach to the people who ensure the games we love are played fairly.

Call Something Ref is more than just a sports book; it's a compelling narrative that reveals the complex, multifaceted lives of referees. Whether you're a die-hard sports fan, a casual observer, or simply interested in the human side of the game, this book will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the individuals who don the black-and-white striped shirt and ref. It's time to step off the sidelines and into the world of referees—to see them not as faceless officials but as the dedicated, resilient, and passionate human beings they truly are.

Mike Deiters was born in Marinette, WI, in 1941. He was the last of four children, including three girls. Yes, he was the last one and often referred to as “the little brother.” Each of them graduated from Marinette High School, Mike in 1960.

Throughout high school, he played varsity high school basketball and legion baseball. Sports became a way of life for him and allowed him to meet and make a lot of friends. In addition to having a wonderful group of friends, playing high school basketball gave him a way to college and to gain a college degree. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh in 1964.

After college, he began officiating high school and college basketball for 18 years. During this time, he was lucky enough to referee many games, including eight appearances at the state basketball tournament. Given his success and his records during high school, he was blessed to be inducted into the Marinette High School Athletic Hall of Fame in 2019. It was a thrill of a lifetime.