Referee Mike Carlton - Spokane Parochial League

Hi, my name is Corey Malone, a parent of of three kids who have attended or currently attend catholic schools here in Spokane. Sports have always been a big part of this parochial community. I remember when I was a kid, coming up to Prep on Sundays. Those football, basketball and baseball games were some of my most fond childhood memories. Still, today, I look around the gym on Sunday and see faces from the past as they now cheer on their kids and the feeling and sense of community is overwhelming. It's that community that bonds us and the reason why we send our kids to Catholic schools, even if money is tight sometimes. This past weekend an accident happened at one of our parochial basketball games. Without getting into too many details, one of our referees was injured while working a game. Needless to say, an ambulance was called and he won't be able to officiate anytime soon. These officials give their time on Sundays so our kids can play. And, in this case, literally sacrificed his body. Now, I don't know this gentleman, but I just found out his name was Mike Carlton. I recognize Mike from my years of coaching basketball, and while I may not have always agreed with his calls, I've always respected these guys for what they do for our kids. Now Mike needs our help. Again, I don't personally know Mike but I see him walking to games and know this injury will directly effect his livelihood for a while and this close to Christmas is heartbreaking. So, I'm rallying that catholic community and spirit to see if we can help keep Mikes head above water over the next few months of his recovery. That same spirit we came to know as kids are the same reasons why we send our kids to catholic school. Mike sacrificed his time and health for us and now its time we help him out. Please join me in raising money for Mike during this holiday season. I hope to raise enough for lost wages, meals and whatever medical bills he may have accrued. Please join me in showing what our community is really all about, helping others in need. If you would like to donate something other than a cash donation please reach out to your schools coach or AD and we can coordinate from there. I, for one, can't wait to see what we can do for Mike. The best is yet to come. Thank you for all your love and support.

Corey Malone