The wrestling family is mourning the loss of Mike Allen, a trailblazing referee and former athlete who made his mark on the sport. A University of Northern Iowa (UNI) former two-sport athlete, Allen excelled in wrestling and football before entering refereeing. His influence extended far beyond the wrestling mat, as he became one of the sport’s top officials and a three-time winner of the Iowa Wrestling Official of the Year. Most notably, he blazed a trail as the first African-American to ref at state championships in Iowa, opening up a career in a sport with little diversity.

News of Allen’s death reached the wrestling family hard, as condolences streamed in from former players, trainers, and spectators who had come to admire his values and dedication to wrestling.

“One of my favorite officials throughout college. Just a great person. Everyone loved Mike. RIP my man,” posted Adam Tirapelle, a former standout collegiate wrestler.

Another fan seconded similar notions, lauding Allen for his reputation on the mat. “Class act and a great referee,” they posted, citing the level of respect he enjoyed among players and umpires.

In another touching tribute, another quality that made Allen a referee was best described as follows: “The best thing to say about a referee is he was consistent. He didn’t have to make the right call, just the same call.”

His loss is not just for a man in history but for a man who is highly regarded for his contributions to the sport and for touching lives in doing so.