FITCHBURG — A standout high school basketball player, Renee Tourigny had the same goal many players have after graduation: to step on the hardwood in college.
Though her collegiate career was derailed by an injury before it could begin, Tourigny still found a way onto the court. It just came in an unexpected uniform.
A referee for nine years now, Tourigny, 26, has officiated both college and high school games. And her hard work and dedication to the sport will be recognized next week as the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletics Association will honor the Fitchburg native as its 2017-18 Official of the Year in girls’ basketball.
“It’s great and it’s an absolute honor,” Tourigny, a 2010 Fitchburg High School graduate, said Wednesday afternoon. “I love officiating, so it’s nice to be recognized for what I’m doing.”
Tourigny’s award will be presented in Franklin on May 30 at the third annual MIAA Official of the Year Banquet.
“I was nominated and I had to send in my resumé and letters of recommendation,” Tourigny said. “And then they selected me. I wouldn’t say I expected it.”
The recognition has some added meaning, Tourigny says, as it was the guidance of Gerry Flynn — a basketball legend at St. Bernard’s — that led her into being the best official she could be. Flynn died in February 2015.
“Gerry was my mentor when I was starting and he ended up being one of my best friends,” Tourigny said. “His passion for basketball carried over into me. I wanted to make him proud, and this award means a lot.”
Tourigny says she plans on continuing to officiate games and “take whatever opportunities” come her way.
