interviewing for sales management position

How to handle this on the applications, not the resume?
I have not worked for three years (my son) and all of my prior employers have closed. I am 32 years old and do not want to seem like I am avoiding giving employment references but they always take the “I want to call previous employers” stance. As a manager, I never called references or previous employers, if I liked them in the interview, I hired them. All in all, I have 14 years retail/sales experience with 10 of those in a management position. What is the bet way to approach the application so I can get the interview where I can explain everything if they want to know?
I would still put them down. if your previous employer would give you a good reference, put down current contact information for your manager that would give you a good reference.
Hotelier Idol – Cricket Maniac in Sales – Hotel GM interview
