ST.CLOUD, MN — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Minnesota hosted an exciting inter-Club basketball tournament on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Southside Boys & Girls Club. Approximately 55 youth in grades 3 through 5 participated in the event, showcasing their skills while building teamwork, sportsmanship, and healthy habits.
“Boys & Girls Club’s basketball tournament is the culmination of two months of practice and preparation at our Clubs and KIDSTOPs,” said Matthew Hoffman, Mississippi Heights KIDSTOP Site Manager and tournament committee member. “Members were taught commitment, teamwork, and dedication while learning the FUNdamentals of basketball at their program sites. The energy and enthusiasm exhibited by all involved was palpable and underlines just how important inter-site events are for our members, sponsors, and extended Boys & Girls Club family.”
Families and community members filled the gym, creating an energetic and encouraging atmosphere throughout the day.
“We had many friends and families in attendance cheering and showing support to our members. It was a fun day. I don’t know how many times I heard from people, ‘this is the best day!’” said Geri Bechtold, Vice President of Operations.
Boys & Girls Club staff also extended special thanks to Sergeant Ryan Sayre of SCPD and Community Service Officer Seth Stelzer of SCPD, who volunteered as referees and helped ensure the tournament ran smoothly.
Tournament Results
- 1st Place: Southside
- 2nd Place: Discovery
- 3rd Place (tie): Eastside & Roosevelt
Open the Door to Champions in Sports & in Life.
More than a day of competition, the tournament reflected what Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Minnesota strive to do every day: open the door to champions in sports & in life. More than 700 youth across Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Minnesota participate in sports & gym activities every day and by removing barriers to participation, such as transportation and cost, youth have access to safe and inclusive spaces where they can play and belong.
For youth like Brennan T., a Roosevelt Boys & Girls Club member, the impact of sports goes beyond the game. “Coming to the Club gives me a safe space to practice basketball. Every time I come to the Club, I play with my friends and try to show them what I know. I hope to one day play college basketball or become a coach.”
Participation in sports builds confidence, leadership, mental and physical well-being, and teamwork. For many youth, what starts on the court becomes a gateway to mentorship, academic success, workforce readiness, and community leadership.
Sports are often what bring kids into the Club, but what they find is far more. They find support, connection, and the opportunity to grow into leaders on and off the court.
About the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Minnesota
The mission of the Boys & Girls Club of Central Minnesota is to do whatever it takes to empower all youth to reach their full potential. The Boys & Girls Club’s priority outcome areas are Academic Success, Healthy Lifestyles & Good Character & Leadership. To achieve these outcomes, the Club provides quality programs and services that start with youth development professionals building positive relationships with youth. Staff offer homework help & tutoring daily, high-yield learning and social recreation activities, arts & crafts, daily challenges and CareerSTART life and workforce readiness programming.
To learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Minnesota, visit our website at www.bgcmn.org.