The Whistleblower - Hardcover

Katz, Bob

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 161168451X ISBN 13: 9781611684513

Publisher: ForeEdge from University Press of New England, 2015

Synopsis

During a season on the road with college basketball referees, Bob Katz watched the games they officiated, listened in on their candid conversations in hotel lobbies and airport lounges, and explored their training, strategy, and mission. In the end, he pulls off an unbelievable feat: he makes us care about the world of the referee. More than that, The Whistleblower is a portrait of one consummate professional at the top of his game, in the final season of his career. Ed Hightower, raised in poverty in the segregated rural South, went on to become superintendent of schools in Edwardsville, Illinois. But it is his side-career as an elite NCAA referee that has earned him renown - which is a far cry from affection, particularly in the eyes of angry coaches and hostile fans. Alone among thousands in the stadium and millions watching at home, the ref's goal is fairness and neutrality. He truly does not care who wins or loses. The Whistleblower shows how Ed's background, character, and training combined with his passion to do the right thing on the court. In the process, the vital but nearly unknown role of the referee is thoroughly and artfully explored by a writer of talent.

About this title

Review

Katz claims that by the time he'd seen enough college basketball games to finish The Whistleblower, he'd trained himself to watch the ref and pay no attention to the players or the score of the game. None of his readers will take it that far, but they'll certainly have a greater appreciation for the work the officials do after reading the book."--Bill Littlefield "Boston Globe"

Given the American sporting culture that universally vilifies officials, the book is a worthwhile reminder that the refs are real people, too. And not as corrupt and inept and biased against your team as you think."--Bill Littlefield "Yahoo Sports"

Katz is a talented writer who provides a vivid account of a world not seen by college basketball fans. He shows the referees' complete dedication to the art of working a game."--Bill Littlefield "Chicago Tribune"

This book provides a rare, intimate glimpse into the lives, thoughts, and actions of referees: how they see the game and why they make or do not make a call. The author finds that a superlative referee is impartial, decisive, and most of all must possess an "x-factor" that is almost impossible to describe. . . . Recommended for college basketball fans and sports fan in general."--Bill Littlefield "Library Journal"

About the Author

BOB KATZ has written on sports and culture for the New York Times, Chicago Tribune, and other publications. His previous books include Third and Long, a Sports Illustrated "summer reads" pick, and Elaine's Circle.

Edition details

• Publisher: ForeEdge from University Press of New England
• Publication date: 2015
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 161168451X
• ISBN 13: 9781611684513
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 232