Exploring Life & Business with Idrees Ramsey of GLC Gutters

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Idrees Ramsey.

Hi Idrees, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself. 
Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, I relocated to Ohio in 2013 after graduating from the University of Toledo. Upon my arrival, I was fortunate to encounter a wonderful mentor who recognized my passion for basketball. Encouraged by my mentor, who noted the scarcity of young officials in Ohio—most being over 50 years old—I decided to explore officiating high school basketball. At just 22 years old, I embarked on this new journey, completing the necessary training and swiftly gaining experience by officiating AAU summer basketball games. 

After two to three years honing my skills on the AAU circuit, I made the transition to officiating high school basketball as a licensed Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) official. Starting with Freshmen and JV games, I gradually built my confidence and expertise in the craft. While initially hesitant about officiating Varsity games on Friday or Saturday nights, I soon embraced the challenge, setting ambitious goals for myself. My ultimate aspiration was to become a state official and officiate a state championship game at the SCHOTTENSTEIN Center (now held at UD Arena). 

To achieve this goal, I dedicated myself to continuous improvement, seeking guidance from mentors, studying the rules rigorously, and analyzing game footage. Now, a decade later, I find myself on the cusp of realizing that dream. This year, I am just one game away from officiating a state game at UD Arena, having been assigned the Division 1 boys Regional final game at my alma mater, the University of Toledo. This significant milestone marks the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. 

In addition to my accomplishments at the high school level, this year also marks my inaugural season as an NCAA-certified Men’s College official. Setting and surpassing my goals in high school officiating inspired me to strive for even greater heights. My current aspiration is to return to the University of Toledo and officiate a men’s college game at my alma mater—an achievement that would be a testament to my unwavering commitment to the sport and its advancement. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s been a relatively smooth journey overall. Working alongside older officials has been incredibly beneficial due to their wealth of knowledge and diverse perspectives. Learning from their experiences has been invaluable. 

One aspect that took me some time to grasp as a young official is the importance of the “official look.” In higher-level basketball games, officials typically maintain a clean-shaven appearance—a detail that might seem trivial but carries significance in the officiating world. Initially, I struggled to understand this expectation, especially as basketball culture often embraces diverse styles and appearances. However, I came to realize that projecting a professional and authoritative image on the court is crucial for gaining respect and credibility as an official. While I may not personally agree with this unwritten rule, I recognize its role in shaping perceptions and adhering to the standards of the profession. 

Despite this challenge, my journey has been relatively smooth, largely due to my willingness to listen, learn, and adapt. By embracing new perspectives and continuously seeking improvement, I’ve been able to navigate the intricacies of officiating with confidence and resilience. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
When I’m not officiating basketball games, I’m busy running my small business, GLC Gutters (www.glcgutters.com). Much like the importance of facial hair in officiating, gutters are often overlooked but play a crucial role in protecting homes from water damage. Every home has gutters, and ensuring they function properly is essential for safeguarding the foundation and basement from potential harm. Recognizing this necessity, I saw an opportunity to enter the gutter business, offering not only gutter installation but also gutter guards to keep them clean. 

What sets GLC Gutters apart is our commitment to excellence and diversity. As one of the few minority-owned gutter companies in central Ohio, we take pride in our work and prioritize customer satisfaction. Our brand is built on a foundation of exceptional customer service, clear communication, and detailed quotes that ensure our customers fully understand the services they’re receiving. From my experience working for a larger company in the field before starting my own venture, I’ve learned the importance of professionalism and reliability, traits that I strive to uphold in every aspect of GLC Gutters. 

Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
My family brings me so much joy! I’m blessed with a lively and spirited 7-year-old daughter, as well as a calm and peaceful 6-month-old son. It’s fascinating to see my daughter’s resemblance to me and my son’s resemblance to his mom—they truly are our little twins in many ways. Watching them grow and develop their unique personalities is an incredible journey. 

My daughter often accompanies me to basketball games, although I suspect her motivation might be more about the fast-food meal and uninterrupted iPad time than the actual game! Nevertheless, having her by my side brings me immense happiness. 

Recently, I purchased my first home, a milestone that fills me with pride and satisfaction. With skyrocketing rent prices, owning a home provides a sense of stability and security for my family. Despite my love for traveling, I’ve managed to explore many destinations around the world, but Mexico holds a special place in my heart. The warmth of the people, the delicious cuisine, and the vibrant atmosphere captivate me every time I visit. Plus, the proximity of Mexico makes it a budget-friendly travel option where I can truly unwind and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. 

Contact Info:

• Website: glcgutters.com
• Other: https://officials.myohsaa.org/Logon