The Ontario Volleyball Association took a moment during the OVAtions Banquet to honour the memory and legacy of Dean Oberle, a respected official, mentor, and friend, who is being posthumously awarded the OVA Officials Award of Merit. 

Dean was a Level 3 Indoor Regional Referee and a Level 1 Local Clinician Course Conductor, whose credentials reflected both his technical expertise and his deep passion for developing others. He brought a calm, consistent, and knowledgeable presence to every match he officiated, earning the respect of players, coaches, and fellow referees across Ontario. More than just a referee, Dean was a builder—of officials, of community, and of the game itself. 

A certified mentor in the OVA Mentorship Program since 2017, Dean gave generously of his time and wisdom at regular season events, guiding emerging officials with patience, encouragement, and a genuine desire to help them grow. At the Ontario Championships, Dean was a longstanding member of the Referee Development Team, serving as both a mentor and Area Supervisor. His feedback was clear and supportive, and his presence helped elevate the experience for everyone on the court. 

But perhaps what truly set Dean apart was not only what he did, but how he did it.  

Anyone who had the privilege of meeting Dean will tell you the same thing: he had an ever-present smile, a booming, infectious laugh, and a positive outlook that lifted every room he entered. Whether officiating a tense match or relaxing at a post-tournament social, Dean brought lightness and connection to the room. He was the unofficial social planner at Ontario Championships, organizing gatherings to bring referees from across the province together. These moments helped build a strong sense of camaraderie in the officiating community—something Dean knew was just as important as any whistle or call. 

You would often find him surrounded by referees—young and experienced alike— sharing a story, cracking a joke, or offering a thoughtful perspective.  And like clockwork, that signature Dean Oberle laugh would echo across the space, lightening the mood and bringing people closer together. 

Dean's energy, leadership, and kindness impacted far more people than he ever realized—on and off the court. He was always available to lend an ear, share his opinion, or offer advice, and he made everyone around him feel seen, heard, and valued. 

While his absence is deeply felt, Dean’s legacy is felt in every gym where an official steps forward with confidence, every post-match conversation where advice is shared with kindness, and every community gathering where laughter reminds us why we do what we do. His contributions were vast, but his greatest gift was how he made people feel—valued, supported, and part of something bigger than themselves.  

It is with gratitude and respect that we present the Officials Award of Merit to Dean Oberle—an official, a mentor, a leader, and a friend. 

Thank you, Dean. You will always be part of our team. 

Deans brother Don was on hand at the banquet to accept the award on behalf of the family.