Local Athlete Transitions from Playing to Officiating Basketball

Abbie Deubner finds rewards in refereeing high school games after successful playing career

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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After excelling as a high school basketball player, Abbie Deubner of Medicine Lake, Montana is now giving back to the sport she loves by becoming a local basketball referee. In her fifth year as a member of the Montana Officials Association, Deubner was recently selected to officiate the District 2C boys' basketball tournament, a thrill for the former All-State player.

Why it matters

Deubner's transition from player to referee highlights the importance of getting younger individuals involved in officiating sports, which can be a challenge. Her experience playing at the high school and college levels provides valuable perspective and skills that translate well to refereeing games.

The details

Deubner was urged to try officiating by long-time referees Dean Nelson and Tim Polk, and she credits referee Michael Reiter of Froid as an excellent mentor. She has paid her dues by first officiating elementary and junior high games before advancing to high school contests. Polk praised Deubner's basketball knowledge, strong whistle, and great communication as attributes that make her a solid referee.

  • Deubner is in her fifth year as a member of the Montana Officials Association.
  • She was recently selected to referee the District 2C boys' basketball tournament.

The players

Abbie Deubner

A former All-State high school basketball player from Medicine Lake, Montana who is now a referee for the Montana Officials Association.

Dean Nelson

A long-time basketball referee who urged Deubner to try officiating.

Tim Polk

A long-time basketball referee who urged Deubner to try officiating and praised her skills as a referee.

Michael Reiter

A basketball referee from Froid, Montana who served as an excellent mentor to Deubner.

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What they’re saying

“When I got the call, it was pure excitement. There are a lot of awesome referees.”

— Abbie Deubner, Referee (northernplainsindependent.com)

“She has a strong whistle and great communication. She's doing a solid job.”

— Tim Polk, Referee (northernplainsindependent.com)

What’s next

Deubner is hopeful that she gets selected to work more basketball tournaments in future years as she continues to gain experience as a referee.

The takeaway

Deubner's transition from player to referee demonstrates the value of getting younger individuals involved in officiating sports, which can be a challenge. Her playing experience and mentorship from veteran referees have helped her develop the skills and perspective to be an effective basketball official.