Bellevue Junior Sports Association Celebrates 50 Years of Empowering Youth Through Athletics

Founded in 1975 by Five Local Couples Driven by a Passion for Community and Sports

September 15, 2025 – Bellevue, Nebraska — The Bellevue Junior Sports Association (BJSA), a cornerstone of youth development and community engagement in Bellevue, proudly celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Since its founding in 1975, BJSA has helped transform thousands of young lives by providing accessible, high-quality sports programs to the youth of the Bellevue community.

BJSA was established by five visionary couples—Bev & Bob Chandler, Marge & Bud Rush, Pat & Bill Garner, Ginny & Frank Binder, and Phyllis & Al Thrower—who saw a need for structured youth athletic opportunities. Initially offering football and wrestling, the founders operated entirely out of their homes, which doubled as meeting spaces and equipment storage.

As community interest and participation grew, so did BJSA’s vision. Through tireless fundraising and strategic investment, the organization expanded its offerings and eventually opened a 22,000-square-foot sports facility in 1990. Located on High School Drive near Bellevue East High School, the facility includes two basketball/volleyball courts, a wrestling room, batting cages, a full kitchen, an activity room, and administrative offices.

“Fifty years ago, we believed in the power of sports to transform lives — and that belief is stronger than ever today,” said BJSA founding member Phyllis Thrower. “This milestone is a testament to the volunteers, coaches, donors, families, and athletes who’ve built this legacy together.”

Today, BJSA is a thriving nonprofit organization led by a full-time director, supported by a dedicated team of volunteers and a Board of Directors. Board members attribute much of the organization’s success to the long-standing leadership of Director Matt Goetz, who has held the role for over 27 years. Under Goetz’s guidance, BJSA has grown significantly and now serves more than 4,000 youth athletes annually. The organization offers a wide range of programs, including tackle football, flag football, cheerleading, basketball, wrestling, select baseball, volleyball, as well as seasonal camps and clinics.

From first-time athletes learning the basics to advanced competitors chasing championships, BJSA has created a foundation for personal growth, teamwork, and lifelong memories. “We are thrilled with the number of student-athletes who have used BJSA as a springboard for future success — both on the field and in life,” said longtime BJSA Director Matt Goetz. As BJSA reflects on its past and looks ahead to the future, the organization remains committed to its core mission:

“Constantly striving to touch the lives of our youth… a very precious commodity… through quality athletic programs and activities since 1975.”

Throughout the rest of 2025, BJSA will commemorate this milestone with events that celebrate its history, recognize the contributions of its supporters, and reaffirm its dedication to making youth sports accessible for generations to come.

| All Photos Provided by BJSA |