The state of Michigan and the wider world of college athletics are mourning the sudden and unexpected death of Todd Geerlings, a legendary figure in collegiate officiating. Known for his calm demeanor, encyclopedic understanding of the rules, and unwavering commitment to mentorship, Geerlings’ passing has sent shockwaves throughout the officiating and sports communities.
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Geerlings played a pivotal role in the Collegiate Officiating Consortium (COC) and was admired nationally for his leadership, fairness, and professionalism. His legacy is one of integrity, quiet excellence, and service to the sport.
A Lifelong Passion for Sports and Fair Play
Todd’s journey into officiating began with a sincere love for sports and a deep respect for the principles of fair play and athletic excellence. Starting at the local level, he quickly rose through the ranks of collegiate officiating, recognized for his extraordinary skill and calmness under pressure.
Coaches, players, and fellow referees consistently praised Geerlings for his impartiality, integrity, and innate sense of the game. He wasn’t just enforcing the rules—he was upholding the core values of sport: respect, effort, and honesty.
A Trusted Referee in Michigan and Beyond
Throughout his career, Todd Geerlings became one of the most trusted and respected referees not only in Michigan but across the national officiating scene. He was regularly assigned to high-stakes collegiate games and was known for letting his professionalism and preparation speak louder than his presence.
His ability to read the flow of the game, de-escalate tense situations, and ensure fairness made him a role model in the officiating world.
A Mentor, Educator, and Visionary at the Collegiate Officiating Consortium (COC)
Beyond his officiating career, Todd played a vital role in shaping the future of college officiating through his work with the COC. In his leadership role, he introduced innovative systems and training protocols, including:
- Refresher clinics
- Online certification modules
- One-on-one mentoring programs
- Real-time performance review systems
These initiatives elevated the quality and consistency of officiating across college sports, mentoring hundreds of aspiring referees and enhancing accountability.
A Teacher of Rules and Ethics
Todd was more than just a trainer—he was a teacher of wisdom and ethics. He had a rare ability to break down complex rule interpretations into clear, understandable lessons. He educated not just about the rulebook, but about the heart and philosophy behind each call.
Young referees saw him as a guide. Veterans trusted him to keep them honest and motivated. Todd believed officiating wasn’t about “catching mistakes,” but about serving the game and giving every athlete a fair chance to compete.
A Quiet Leader with Lasting Influence
Colleagues often described Todd as thoughtful, deliberate, and quietly charismatic. He wasn’t the loudest in the room, but when he spoke, everyone listened. His calm approach to conflict, his creative solutions, and his humility made him a standout during review sessions, post-game evaluations, and training meetings.
He consistently reminded his peers that officiating was not about ego—but about stewardship. He saw himself as a servant of the game, not its gatekeeper.
A Devoted Family Man and Cherished Friend
Outside of sports, Todd Geerlings was known as a loving husband, dedicated father, and loyal friend. He cherished time with his family, frequently attending youth sports events, hosting backyard barbecues, taking spontaneous road trips, and engaging in heartfelt conversations long into the evening.
His kindness and warmth at home mirrored the calm strength he brought to the field.
A Legacy That Will Guide Future Generations
Todd’s sudden passing has left a deep void—not just for those who knew him personally, but for the broader officiating community whose careers and confidence he helped shape. Within the COC and beyond, there is a shared sense of grief and gratitude for the legacy he left behind.
Memorial services are being planned in Michigan to celebrate Todd’s life. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donating to scholarship programs supporting future referees—an initiative Todd passionately supported.
Conclusion: Honoring a Life of Integrity and Quiet Excellence
Todd Geerlings stood at the intersection of passion, fairness, and humility. He believed that the best referees were not those who sought attention, but those who served the game with grace, knowledge, and heart. His impact on Michigan and the national officiating landscape cannot be overstated.
While he may have blown his final whistle, Todd’s influence will echo through every well-called game, every rising official he mentored, and every athlete who benefited from his pursuit of fairness.
The world of sports has lost a great official—but gained a lasting example of what it means to lead with integrity. Todd Geerlings will be missed, remembered, and forever honored.