Whistle Talk

Mike D the Referee

Inside the Mind of a Football Official An inside look at the world of Football Officials. Interviews and content related to officiating the greatest team sport around. Mike D the Referee will bring you information ranging from Penalties, current game content, to how you can become an official yourself. From youth, high school, college to the NFL, Mike D will help give you the insight of what goes on Inside the Mind of a Football Official. And be sure to follow on TikTok @mike.d.the.referee On Instagram @mikedthereferee and Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MikeDtheReferee and X @MikeDtheReferee

  1. JAN 14

    Navigating Tax Season for Football Officials

    Summary In this episode of Whistle Talk, host Michael D'Ambrosio welcomes tax expert Jeff Conrad to discuss the intricacies of tax reporting for football officials. They cover topics such as income reporting, the importance of 1099 forms, allowable deductions, self-employment tax, and the significance of meticulous record-keeping. Jeff shares insights on navigating tax season, avoiding common pitfalls, and understanding the implications of hobby loss rules. The conversation emphasizes the need for officials to stay organized and informed as they prepare for the upcoming season and tax obligations. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Whistle Talk 03:16 Meet Jeff Conrad: The Tax Expert 04:12 Understanding Officiating Income 06:48 Navigating 1099s and Tax Reporting 10:40 Expenses and Deductions for Officials 14:15 Self-Employment Tax and Hobby Loss Rules 20:39 Record Keeping and Audit Preparedness 27:28 Multiple Sports and Deductions 34:54 Home Office Deductions and LLCs 39:31 State vs. Federal Tax Considerations 40:04 Avoiding Gray Areas in Tax Reporting 44:19 Final Thoughts and Recommendations About Jeff Conrad Professional: Tax Partner at FGMK, LLP Licensed attorney and CPA for 30 years www.fgmk.com Football Officiating:- Licensed 38 years- 91 playoff games, including 6 state finals- IHSA Football Clinician 20 years- Illinois - 2023 NFHS Football Official of the Year - Southwest Prairie Conference Football Assigner- Athletic Officials Association - football division president & Executive Board Vice  President- Joliet Football Officials Association - Board Member- IACO Football Clinic - Past Chairman- Referee Magazine - 2 articles published In addition, for the last 8 years, I have prepared video based training for all IL associations, and I have assisted Sam Knox with a training video series - Football Focus -  you can find on Youtube.  I also speak/present at 10 to 12 football clinics each year.

    53 min
  2. 12/10/2025

    Reflections and Growth: Preparing for Next Season

    In this episode of Whistle Talk, Michael D'Ambrosio and Daniel Chamberlain discuss the intricacies of football officiating and coaching, reflecting on the end of the season and the importance of self-evaluation. They explore effective communication strategies, the significance of building rapport with players and coaches, and the need for continuous improvement in officiating and coaching practices. The conversation emphasizes the value of professionalism, preparation, and the growth mindset necessary for success in sports. Takeaways Understanding the mindset of football officials is crucial. End of season reflections help improve future performance. Evaluating both strengths and weaknesses is essential for growth. Effective communication is key in officiating and coaching. Building rapport with players and coaches enhances game management. Halftime adjustments can change the course of a game. Professionalism is vital in maintaining authority on the field. Continuous learning and development are necessary for officials and coaches. Creating a positive environment fosters better performance. Feedback should be constructive and aimed at improvement. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Whistle Talk 02:45 Season Reflections and Officiating Insights 05:42 End of Season Evaluations and Reflections 08:06 Game Management and Mechanics 11:05 Rules, Judgments, and Communication 14:05 Coaching and Player Development 16:51 Crew Communication and Leadership 26:24 Effective Communication in Sports Officiating 28:29 Pregame Preparation and Team Dynamics 29:47 In-Game Communication Strategies 32:33 Halftime Adjustments and Leadership 34:13 Setting Expectations and Accountability 35:08 Building Rapport with Players and Coaches 39:12 Managing Conflict and Emotional Situations 44:33 Professionalism and Continuous Improvement Resources Click the link for Mike D's and Daniel's documents for end of the season reflection https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1M6TA0I6M7akmEJJiYSvd0NpA6J4F5MRV?usp=drive_link Battlefield to Ballfields Link https://www.battlefields2ballfields.org/

    57 min
4.8
out of 5
20 Ratings

About

Inside the Mind of a Football Official An inside look at the world of Football Officials. Interviews and content related to officiating the greatest team sport around. Mike D the Referee will bring you information ranging from Penalties, current game content, to how you can become an official yourself. From youth, high school, college to the NFL, Mike D will help give you the insight of what goes on Inside the Mind of a Football Official. And be sure to follow on TikTok @mike.d.the.referee On Instagram @mikedthereferee and Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MikeDtheReferee and X @MikeDtheReferee

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