Sports & Athletics

Mountaineer Winter Athletics 2025 Recap: Building Momentum on the Court

February 27, 2026 by emilyhughes Leave a Comment

The winter season brought exciting progress for BASIS Independent Bellevue Athletics as our Mountaineers took to the basketball court with determination, discipline, and heart. Across both Division 1 and Division 2, our student-athletes continued to build on the strong foundation of our program, showing growth in skill, teamwork, and confidence. Under the leadership of Coach D, the Mountaineers made this winter, a season to remember.

Division 2 Basketball

Our Division 2 team wrapped up the season with a 5–4 record, highlighted by steady improvement and a growing sense of cohesion. With a roster of younger players, Coach D focused this season on teaching defensive formations, offensive plays, and proper positioning. These concepts take time to develop, but as the season progressed, buy-in increased and the team began to play with greater unity and purpose. Eshan A. was a key player on this years Division 2 team. When asked what he enjoyed most about this season, he shared, “I had a lot of fun with my teammates. My most memorable game was when I scored 13 points against Open Window.”

In reflecting on the season and what defines this team, Coach D shared, “The moment that best defines this Division 2 team is how they competed in every single game, regardless of the score or opponent. They played with relentless effort and never backed down. One memory that stands out is hearing an opposing player say, ‘They are everywhere.’ That perfectly captured this group; high energy, high motor, and a willingness to outwork anyone on the court. Their effort and teamwork defined who they were more than any single win or loss.”

With over 15 dedicated athletes learning the game and growing together, Division 2 laid important groundwork for the future of the program. The progress made this winter reflects a group that is committed to improvement and ready to take the next step in the years ahead.

Division 1 Basketball

Division 1 delivered a remarkable season, finishing 9–0 and completing a perfect run. Along the way, the Mountaineers earned impressive wins over Open Window, French American, Billings, Providence, and more. After winning about half of their games last season, this year marked a major leap forward. The foundation Coach D established last year, combined with offseason training and consistent effort from the players, clearly paid off.

Several athletes made notable strides this season. Andrew W. moved up from a Division 2 and Division 1 fringe player to a solidified Division 1 player, and quickly became a key contributor, bringing high-pressure defense and fast-paced offense to the court. His consistent hard work in and out of season has proven to pay off and has made an obvious impact on the success of the team. When asked what advice Andrew would give to a younger player he said, “Show up every day and don’t give up. Work hard every day and don’t compare yourself to others.”

Yan X. led the team in scoring, averaging over 20 points per game and thriving as a dynamic driver to the basket. He took on a voice of leadership this season, helping call plays on offense and unifying the defense. In response to being asked what the most memorable part of his season was Yan shared, “When we finished the last game and were undefeated it was a lot of emotions. During the game I tried to give my teammates lots of opportunities. Going undefeated meant a lot to the team and to me.”

This season also marked a meaningful milestone for Benjamin J., Gavin H., and Linda J., who were part of the very first BLV basketball team formed by Coach Shelp just three years ago. Now, they close out their middle school careers on top, helping leave the program in strong hands with Coach D and an impressive group of grade 7 and grade 6 players ready to carry the torch forward. Gavin was asked what lesson he will take with him from his middle school basketball career and he shared, “Basketball is a time to make memories with the people you play with. It goes by fast, so cherish the time with teammates and don’t take any of it for granted.”

We extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our wonderful grade 8 players. Your leadership and dedication have helped shape this program, and we look forward to cheering you on at the high school level in the years to come.

Looking Ahead

This winter season showcased what Mountaineer Athletics is all about: growth, commitment, and teamwork. Across both divisions, players embraced learning, supported one another, and competed with pride. Each practice and game contributed to building a program centered on character, strategy, and skill development.

When asked what his hopes were for the future of BLV Basketball Program Coach D shared, “My hope is that we continue building a strong, sustainable program rooted in fundamentals, teamwork, and character. I want players to feel excited to join, develop their skills over multiple years, and take pride in representing the school. If we continue to emphasize hard work, discipline, and a positive team culture, the success on the court will follow. More importantly, I hope the program continues to shape confident, resilient young people who carry these lessons with them long after their playing days are over. I am also really looking forward to the possibility of having a high school team in the future, coaching them and seeing the long-term growth that can come from developing players from middle school all the way through high school. Watching that progression, both as athletes and as people, would be incredibly rewarding.”

The Mountaineers are gaining momentum, and the future of BASIS Independent Bellevue Basketball has never looked brighter.

Go Mountaineers! Onward and upward!

Student-Athlete Success Story: NCAA Signing Day & the Power of Academic Balance

February 25, 2026 by aloracooper Leave a Comment

How Student-Athletes Excel in Academics and Competitive Athletics

Across the BASIS Independent Schools network, student success is defined by a balance of advanced academics paired with meaningful opportunities beyond the classroom.

Each year, our students demonstrate that academic excellence and athletic achievement are not mutually exclusive. Instead, they strengthen one another.

A recent NCAA Signing Day celebration at BASIS Independent Silicon Valley highlighted this powerful combination, underscoring a broader network truth: BASIS Independent student-athletes are prepared to compete and excel at the collegiate level.

A Model Supporting Scholar-Athletes

Student-athletes are supported by an intentionally designed program that cultivates discipline, time management, and resilience. These same skills that drive success in advanced coursework translate naturally to competitive athletics in the form of focus, persistence, and strategic thinking.

Whether training after school, competing on weekends, or balancing schedules with demanding classes, BASIS Independent students consistently rise to the challenge. Faculty, coaches, and families work collaboratively to ensure students are supported holistically, enabling them to pursue ambitious academic goals while continuing to grow as athletes.

NCAA Signing Day: A Network Moment

The NCAA Signing Day celebration at BASIS Independent Silicon Valley marked an important milestone not only for one student, but for the entire network.

Senior Michelle G.’s commitment to compete in women’s tennis at Massachusetts Institute of Technology reflects a pattern seen across BASIS Independent Schools: students earning opportunities at institutions that value both intellectual rigor and athletic excellence.

Events like this offer the community a chance to pause and celebrate what these accomplishments represent; years of dedication, consistency, and support from families, educators, and coaches working together.

Building a Culture of Athletic Excellence

Across the network, athletics programs emphasize growth, leadership, and sportsmanship. Students compete in basketball, soccer, swimming, tennis, volleyball, and more with many often serving as team leaders while maintaining demanding academic schedules. This culture reinforces a powerful message:

Students do not need to choose between excelling academically and pursuing athletics seriously. Instead, they learn how to integrate both — a skill that serves them well in college and beyond.

Looking Ahead: A Growing Legacy

As more BASIS Independent student-athletes move on to collegiate athletics, including programs governed by the National Collegiate Athletic Association, these milestones continue to build momentum across the network. Younger students see what’s possible, programs grow stronger, and the definition of success expands.

Each signing day, championship season, and personal best achieved by a BASIS Independent student represents a network win and a reflection of a school community committed to developing well-rounded, motivated, and high-achieving young adults.

Interested in learning more about our programs and community?

Inquire Today

BASIS Independent Schools is a premier network of PreK-12 private schools with locations in some of the most bustling and dynamic metropolitan areas in the country, including California, New York, Virginia, and Washington State.

NCAA Signing Day Celebration at BASIS Independent Silicon Valley: Michelle G. (Grade 12)

February 12, 2026 by ezekielbracamonte Leave a Comment

On Wednesday, February 4, BASIS Independent Silicon Valley proudly hosted its very first NCAA Signing Day ceremony, celebrating senior student-athlete Michelle G., who has committed to play Women’s Tennis at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

NCAA Signing Day is a nationwide celebration recognizing high school student-athletes who commit to continuing their athletic careers at the collegiate level. For Michelle and for BISV, this moment represents years of dedication, perseverance, and achievement both on the court and in the classroom.

“This moment means so much to me. MIT represents everything I’ve worked toward—excellence in the classroom and on the field. I couldn’t have done this without the constant support of my family, coaches, and the BASIS Independent Silicon Valley community,” said Michelle G. (Grade 12).

The journey to this milestone began on December 18, when Michelle shared the exciting news that she had officially committed to MIT. After receiving a Signing Day form from her future coach, she connected with the school to coordinate the ceremony. The Athletics team began organizing the event to formally recognize her NCAA commitment and celebrate the milestone with the community.

As BISV’s first Signing Day event, the ceremony was thoughtfully planned to reflect the significance of the occasion. The Athletics Department led the coordination of the Signing Day ceremony, managing the planning and overall organization of the event. They focused on making the occasion thoughtful and fitting for this important milestone.

The turnout exceeded expectations. Students, staff, family members, and friends filled the gym to celebrate Michelle and show their support. The energy in the room reflected the pride of the BISV community and the growing strength of its Athletics Program.

“This milestone reflects dedication and talent not only on the tennis court but also the ability to thrive within the academic rigor that defines BASIS Independent Silicon Valley,” said Head of School Sara Kolb. “As a school, we remain committed to elevating and celebrating our athletic programs and to supporting our students who pursue excellence across both academics and extracurriculars. Michelle was instrumental in building our high school tennis program, and I’m so proud to see her hard work rewarded with this accomplishment!”

Following the remarks from school leadership and coaches, Michelle signed her commitment document as attendees gathered around to celebrate and take photos. The ceremony concluded with conversations, congratulations, and a sense of shared pride in her achievement.

As the first BISV student-athlete to celebrate an NCAA Signing Day, Michelle has set an inspiring precedent for the future. Her impact on campus extends beyond her individual success; she helped establish the High School Competitive Tennis program and demonstrated leadership that strengthened BISV Athletics for students to come.

Athletics Director Keelin Spencer expressed, “I am so proud of Michelle for committing to continue her athletic career at the NCAA level. She made a lasting impact on our athletics program by taking initiative and helping establish our High School Competitive Tennis program. She is truly deserving of this accomplishment, and I have no doubt she will inspire future Bobcat student-athletes to pursue collegiate athletics.”

Michelle’s Signing Day marks the beginning of a new chapter for BISV Athletics. Her achievement sends a clear message that competing at the collegiate level is an attainable goal for students who pursue excellence with focus and determination. BISV is incredibly proud of Michelle and looks forward to cheering her on as she continues her academic and athletic career at MIT.

BASIS Independent Silicon Valley is a TK–Grade 12 private school, offering an internationally benchmarked liberal arts and sciences curriculum, with advanced STEM offerings. Considering joining the Bobcat community? To join our interest list for the next school year and receive admissions updates and more, please click here.

Summer Buzz: What to Expect for BASIS Independent Bellevue Summer 2026!

February 6, 2026 by emilyhughes Leave a Comment

As sunshine stretches a little longer into each day, excitement starts to bubble up across our Mountaineer community—summer is almost here! Once the school year comes to a close in June, students may say goodbye to regular classes until August, but the fun and learning doesn’t have to stop on campus. All summer long, BASIS Independent Bellevue will be buzzing with energy as we host a variety of engaging summer programs.

Designed by our Auxiliary Department, Summer 2026 is packed with opportunities for students to explore passions, try something new, and make memories with friends along the way. Summer is the perfect season for creativity, curiosity, and discovery, and our programs are built to embrace all three. Whether students are creating, coding, collaborating, or staying active, our summer offerings reflect the vibrant interests of our community and promise something exciting for every camper.

Day Camp

Day camps offer students an exciting blend of learning and play through flexible, theme-based programming. To reflect the wide range of interests within our community, the Auxiliary Department has designed a rotating schedule of weekly themes that bring each camp experience to life.

Campers will explore different eras in Time Travel Trek, blast off to different planets in Space Explorers, connect with nature in Wild World Adventures, or tap into their superpowers in Superhero Academy. Each day features activities aligned with the weekly theme, balanced with both indoor and outdoor fun. Every session wraps up with a celebratory Fun Friday, often highlighted by special guest experiences tied to the theme. Families are welcome to enroll campers in multiple weeks, giving students the chance to enjoy every adventure our campus has in store.

Specialty Camps

Our specialty summer programs offer students a dynamic space to build friendships, explore new interests, and challenge themselves. From creative, hands-on activities to athletic options like Archery and Sports Menagerie, these camps reflect the diverse passions of the Mountaineer Community. Beyond summer fun, families can expect programs that support learning, social growth, and essential life skills, all while encouraging curiosity, confidence, and exploration at BASIS Independent Bellevue.

Specialty Camp Focus

While our summer day camp is highlighted by fun explorative learning, we’d be remiss if we did not mention some of the other areas BASIS Independent Bellevue Summer Camps shine! We know while the school year may contain multitudes of differing subjects, BLV Summer strives to offer campers a wide range of intellectually stimulating courses. For example, our Latin Immersion Course and Latin Boot camp offer not only an introduction to the language, but also opportunities to further build upon information already learned.

Children can also explore their creative side with one of our art focused specialty courses. Such as; DJ Camp that introduces campers to professional remixing software, helping them craft their own mixes while learning about audio editing and beat production. Jazz Camp offers instrumentalists the chance to refine their technique, explore improvisation, and collaborate in ensemble settings. Creative Writing Camp gives campers the opportunity to expand their writing skills and creative story telling. Or perhaps your child is interested in theatre then, Play Creation Theater Adventure could be the right camp for them, here campers get to explore the process of scription, designing, and preforming their own play!

Sign Up Today!

Spanning a wide range of interests, our summer programs keep the campus energized and engaged long after the school year ends. These experiences encourage students to explore new interests while developing valuable skills. To learn more, view our complete Summer 2026 Camp Brochure here and register below! For additional questions you can contact the organizing team at blv.summercamp@basisindependent.com.

Summer Camp Sign Ups

Grade 6 at BASIS Independent Bothell: Student Ambassador Linyue’s Experience

January 13, 2026 by abisoyetaylor Leave a Comment

Discover how Linyue thrives in academics, builds friendships, and makes the most of middle school life at BASIS Independent Bothell.

*Meet Linyue,*
*Grade 6 Student Ambassador*

Starting middle school is an exciting milestone, and at BASIS Independent Bothell, we make sure every student feels supported as they take on new challenges.

To give you an inside look at life in Grade 6, we spoke with one of our Student Ambassadors, Linyue, who shared her favorite parts of school, how she adjusted to academics, and her advice for new students.

Q: What do you love most about Grade 6 at BASIS Independent Bothell?

A: Definitely the community! It feels like being part of a big family where everyone is supportive and kind. Teachers and classmates are always ready to help, and that makes learning so much more enjoyable.

Q: How did you adjust to middle school academics?

A: At first, it was a big change, but I found a routine that works for me: study for about an hour and review every day. It keeps me on track and makes learning feel less overwhelming. It’s amazing how much easier things feel when you stay consistent. Plus, our teachers make learning fun and interactive, so it never feels boring!

Q: What’s your favorite subject and why?

A: I love Chemistry and Physics because they challenge me to think in new ways. English is also a favorite because it pushes me to think creatively and express myself better.

Q: What extracurricular activities do you enjoy?

A: Basketball! I love the energy of the game and how it brings everyone together after school. It’s the perfect way to connect with friends outside the classroom.

Q: Any advice for new students joining Grade 6?

A: Stay focused and listen to your teachers. They’re here to help you succeed. And don’t forget to enjoy the experience and explore! Join clubs, try new activities, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Middle school is full of opportunities to learn and grow, so make the most of it!

“Basketball isn’t just a game. It’s where teamwork, energy, and fun come together. Every time I step on the court, I feel connected and ready to give my best!”

Why Student Ambassadors Matter

Student Ambassadors like Linyue help create a welcoming environment for new families and peers. Their experiences highlight what makes BASIS Independent Bothell unique: a strong academic foundation, a vibrant community, and opportunities to grow both inside and outside the classroom.

Are you considering joining BASIS Independent Bothell’s vibrant school community? Schedule a tour or attend an upcoming admissions event to learn more about our program.

Beyond the Classroom: Extracurricular Activities at BASIS Independent Bothell

November 18, 2025 by abisoyetaylor Leave a Comment

At BASIS Independent Bothell, we believe that education extends beyond academics. Our campus offers a dynamic range of extracurricular activities, including student clubs, sports programs, and enrichment opportunities for every grade level. These programs help students discover passions, develop leadership skills, and build lasting friendships.

Why Extra Curriculars Matter

Participation in clubs and athletics fosters teamwork, creativity, and confidence. Younger students explore new interests, while older students take on leadership roles and compete in regional and national events. These experiences compliment academic learning and strengthen our school community.

Opportunities for All Grades

From our Kindergarten through Upper School, every student has access to enriching activities that grow with them year after year. Whether your child loves STEM, arts, music, or competitive sports, they’ll find a place to thrive.

Photo Highlights

Our students thrive in a vibrant community where learning goes beyond the classroom, exploring sports, arts, STEM, and leadership activities that nurture confidence, creativity, and lifelong friendships.

Ready to Learn More?

Discover how your child can benefit from a well-rounded education at BASIS Independent Bothell. Explore our extracurricular programs and see why families choose us for academic excellence and vibrant student life.

Mountaineer Athletics Fall 2025 Recap: A Season of Growth and Grit

November 7, 2025 by emilyhughes Leave a Comment

This fall was one to remember for the BASIS Independent Bellevue Mountaineers. From the volleyball court to the soccer field to our very first swim season, our student-athletes brought energy, teamwork, and heart to every practice and competition. Under the leadership of our passionate coaches, the Mountaineers continue to climb higher, building a foundation of excellence that will carry into our expanding high school program.

Girls Volleyball

The Mountaineer volleyball program, led by Coach Fischer, embodied the heart of what it means to be a developing athletic program. A program built on growth, teamwork, and skill development over wins and losses. The team finished the season 3–8, but the record was never the measure of success. Coach Fischer emphasized progress, communication, and confidence, and her players responded with remarkable unity and improvement across every level of play.

Both the D1 and D2 teams grew steadily throughout the season, building chemistry and trust with every match. Their commitment to learning and supporting one another defined the fall and set a foundation that will strengthen the program for years to come.

One of the most memorable moments came during the Blackout Game, which brought the entire BASIS community together for a night of excitement and pride. Monty the Mountaineer made a special appearance as students, families, and staff filled the gym to cheer on their team. A halftime serving challenge and school raffle added to the fun, creating a celebration that perfectly captured how athletics unites our campus.

At the October 27 Jamboree, the D1 team showcased their development, earning two hard-fought wins over Eastside Christian. The team’s serving game was anchored by Vivian L., whose accuracy and consistency made her a standout all season, while Yvonne Q. provided steady leadership and inspired her teammates through her composure and hustle.

The D2 team finished their season with an impressive 4–0 record at the October 28 Jamboree, claiming the championship title. Their teamwork, communication, and consistent serving, led by Carry and Melody, were key to their success and a reflection of the program’s overall progress.

Coach Fischer shared that her focus this season was on sportsmanship, team bonding, and foundational skill-building, emphasizing that improvement, not the scoreboard, was the true goal. The Mountaineer volleyball teams have set the standard for a culture of growth, effort, and excellence that will continue to elevate the program for years to come.

Co-Ed Soccer

The Mountaineer soccer season was a story of endurance, growth, and heart from start to finish. It began with the very first team meeting, when Coach Thies and Coach Abele set the tone for the year. They told the players that they may or may not be the most talented team, but they would be the most conditioned. That message became the team’s identity, a commitment to effort, perseverance, and pride in representing their school.

Together, Coach Abele and Coach Thies led the Mountaineers through a season defined by determination and growth. Every match tested their endurance, as the team often only had 11 players, yet the players grew stronger with each challenge. Through long minutes and relentless competition, they learned to communicate under pressure, support one another, and play with courage.

Arosh S. and Aiden S. powered the offense with standout performances that became defining moments of the season. Their chemistry and creativity fueled the attack, highlighted by a thrilling game where Arosh scored five goals. Meanwhile, Mingming G. stepped into a brand-new role as goalkeeper, showing remarkable adaptability and composure. His courage and consistency anchored the defense and reflected the leadership and selflessness that define Mountaineer athletics.

As the season progressed, the team’s transformation was undeniable. Reflecting on the journey, Coach Abele shared, “It was really cool to see them come together as one. It was night and day from the beginning of the season.” She added, “They were really a team out there. The growth has been incredible to see.”

The Mountaineers closed their season on November 4 against KSDA, finishing 3–5 overall, a record that only hints at how far they came. From that first meeting to the final whistle, this team’s story was one of perseverance, unity, and belief in one another, a season as inspiring as it was competitive.

Swim Team

This fall marked the beginning of a new chapter for Mountaineer Athletics with the launch of the first-ever BASIS Independent Bellevue Swim Team, led by Coach EE. What started as an early morning experiment has quickly become one of the most exciting and promising programs on campus.

The swimmers trained with discipline and focus, meeting for early morning practices on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:45–7:45 a.m. and dry-land workouts on Wednesdays after school. The commitment required to show up and train before sunrise showed their dedication and desire to improve every day.

While this inaugural season was focused on training rather than competition, the team made great strides in technique, endurance, and overall confidence in the water. Each practice built momentum, as swimmers refined their strokes, learned race fundamentals, and supported one another through challenging sets. The sense of teamwork and encouragement within the group set the tone for the future of the program.

Coach EE has been intentional about building a strong foundation for the seasons ahead, focusing on consistency, technical growth, and team culture. The swimmers have embraced that vision, laying the groundwork for a program that will continue to grow and thrive as BASIS Independent Bellevue expands into high school competition.

The Mountaineer Swim Team is off to an incredible start, and the waves they have made this fall are only the beginning.

Looking Ahead

This fall was a season defined by growth, grit, community, and pride. Our athletes and coaches have built something special, an athletic culture rooted in sportsmanship, camaraderie, and excellence. From thrilling rallies to record-setting goals to 6:00 a.m. workouts, every moment reflected the heart of what it means to be a Mountaineer.

As our program continues its journey of growth in the winter season, the Mountaineers are ready, stronger, prouder, and united in spirit.

Go Mountaineers! Onward and upward!
“We never lose, We either win or we grow.”

Unlocking Potential: A Glimpse into Extracurricular Life at BASIS Independent Manhattan

August 12, 2025 by christineklayman Leave a Comment

At BASIS Independent Manhattan, we believe that the best education is enhanced by extracurricular activities. Beyond the classroom, our extensive array of clubs, activities, and athletics plays a crucial role in fostering well-rounded individuals. Through exploring their passions, our students develop new skills and cultivate leadership in a supportive environment. As a PreK-Grade 12 private school in NYC, with our Lower School serving PreK-Grade 5 on the Upper West Side and our Upper School serving grades 6-12 in Chelsea, we offer diverse opportunities tailored to every age and interest.

two prek students participate in gardening club outside by pouring water on a tray of dirt

Read on to learn more about our exciting after-school activities, clubs, and sports, designed to enhance the academic journey and build a stronger sense of self. For an in-depth look at our full program offerings, please visit our dedicated pages for Clubs & Activities and Sports & Athletics.

Lower School Extracurriculars:

Cultivating Early Passions (PreK-Grade 5)

four lower school boy students stand in basketball poses wearing their wildcat jerseys

On the Upper West Side, our Lower School students choose from a selection of after-school programming to pursue their interests in sports, art, music, science, technology, and more! We continuously expand our offerings, aiming to inspire broad participation among our young Wildcats.

Some of our super-popular clubs that return year-after-year include:

Basketball
Cheer-Gymnastics
Chess
Drama (Putting on a fully staged musical production)
Piano
Soccer
Speech & Debate
Tech & Lighting (for the Drama Club’s musical)
Tennis

engineering and robotics club building lego robots

girl students make cheer gymnastics pyramid with pompoms

We also have the best teachers, who are not only expert educators and passionate about the subjects they teach, but they also run after-school programs. These teacher-led clubs are some of our most popular! While building strong teacher-student relationships, participants have unique opportunities for exploration in:

Drama
Clay World
Comic Book Writing
Fashion & Photography
Figure Drawing
Gardening
Pokémon
Set & Costume Design (for the Drama Club’s musical)

The primary goal behind our Lower School’s extracurricular design is to foster curiosity, skill-building, creativity, and exposure to new areas beyond the classroom. We also actively curate our programs to meet the majority of requests from our families, based on our annual surveys.

students as the sharks hold a pose perform drama club musical finding nemo

the three student leads of finding nemo sing the finale

Success & Highlights:

Last year, we saw 82% of our PreK–K students and 76% of our grade 1–5 students engage in these enriching programs, a testament to their appeal and impact. A notable success we are particularly proud of is the Lower School Drama Club, which consistently sells out its shows and fosters cross-club collaboration. We are also proud of our popular Tennis and Piano clubs, which always have a full roster of students.

bar chart showing participation percentages for lower school students

woman with violin in front of a table of musical materials at the extracurricular fair

Upper School Extracurriculars & Sports

Deepening Engagement (Grades 6–12 )

At our Chelsea campus, the Upper School Extracurriculars provide unparalleled opportunities for students to develop a stronger sense of self through a multitude of after-school activities. Approximately 47% of all Upper School students are actively involved in an extracurricular activity, reflecting a strong culture of student engagement beyond the classroom.

two middle school boys playing basketball and running with an opposing player encroaching and a referee in the background

Popular and returning clubs include:

Drama (Putting on a fully staged musical production)
Dungeons & Dragons
Engineering & Robotics
Journalism (Wildcat Weekly News)
Math Support & Competition Prep
Money Smart
Ping Pong
Speech & Debate

This year marks a dynamic period of growth for our Upper School extracurricular landscape, with the launch of a new journalism club, led by one of our beloved English teachers. We are also excited about the continued momentum of our new high school speech and debate program.

a female student gives two thumbs up after testing the bearing weight her bridge could hold in engineering club. she built it with popsicle sticks and stacked six metal weights on top

Success & Highlights:

One of our most exciting success stories comes from our debate team, which began as a middle school club and won the championship two years in a row. Building on that momentum, the team has now transitioned into an Upper School club, expanding its scope and ambition. This year, they are preparing to travel to prestigious institutions such as Columbia.

three middle school students hold up their championship trophies at the ESU USA speech and debate tournament in new york city

Competitive Athletics:

Building Teamwork and Discipline

Our middle and high school student-athletes participate in a robust lineup of competitive sports. This year’s offerings include High School Boys Soccer, High School Girls Volleyball, Middle School Girls Volleyball, and Middle School Basketball.

Philosophy:

Our growing competitive athletics program centers on developing the whole student through sport. We aim to foster:

- sportsmanship,
- teamwork, and
a competitive spirit that pushes students to strive for excellence while embracing both victory and defeat as opportunities for growth.

the middle school girls vollebyall team poses with their championship trophy, holding up the number one with their fingers, and biting their medals like olympians

Program Expansion:

Our athletics/sports offerings are experiencing exciting growth, particularly in volleyball and soccer.

After the middle school volleyball team secured a championship win last fall, enthusiasm for the sport has continued to build, leading to the launch of a brand-new high school volleyball team this fall.
- Additionally, our high school soccer program is kicking off its inaugural season this year by joining a new competitive league.

Cultivating Well-Rounded Wildcats

At BASIS Independent Manhattan, our extracurricular and athletic programs are integral to our mission of educating students to the highest international standards. They are designed to complement our rigorous academic curriculum, fostering collaboration, critical thinking, and a sense of community. We encourage both prospective and current families to explore these incredible opportunities.

Sports and Clubs at BASIS Independent Bothell

March 11, 2025 by mallorykilbreath Leave a Comment

While leadership opportunities for students are evident in every aspect of the BASIS Independent student experience, students are able to gain valuable skills through participation in club and sports opportunities. As we open our doors to a brand-new student body in the 2025-2026 school year, we look forward to developing clubs and sports that match the desires of the students in our community or introduce them to something new.

Sports

With our WIAA regulation-size field, outdoor sport courts, and gymnasium, we have the ability to host schools from all around to foster our student-athletes in a variety of sports.

Examples* of athletic offerings for both club and interscholastic competition include:

Badminton
Baseball
Basketball
Dance
Flag Football
Pickleball
Soccer
Softball
Track and Field/Cross Country
Ultimate Frisbee
Volleyball
Yoga

*We will be finalizing first year and future offerings soon.

Students posing for the camera in basketball jerseys.

*Images from BASIS Independent McLean and BASIS Independent Brooklyn

Clubs

The BASIS Independent Bothell club program will allow students to try something new, dive deeper into an interest, compete on regional, national and international levels, and gain valuable leadership and collaboration skills. The BASIS Independent network encourages students to take the initiative to establish new clubs that cater to their interests, which has resulted in the creation of some of our most popular clubs across the network, making our network school students leaders in many popular programs.

Examples* of club offerings include:

Art
Band/Choir/Ensemble
Board Games Club
Book Club
Chess Club
Coding
Debate
DECA
Dungeons & Dragons
Garden Club
Key Club
Lego Club
Math Wizards
Minecraft
Model UN
Robotics
Theater Arts/Drama
Yearbook
World Travel Club

Students setting the ball while playing volleyball.

Teacher and students looking at chess boards while playing chess.

*Images from BASIS Independent Brooklyn and BASIS Independent Silicon Valley.

Join Us

To learn more about our clubs and sport offerings, join us for a virtual information session! Sign up here.

Moving Mountaineers – Celebrating our Athletic Department!

January 13, 2025 by jessicagrear Leave a Comment

It is an exciting year for BASIS Independent Bellevue athletics! The Mountaineers are making waves in the world of middle school sports after being officially accepted into the prestigious Cascade Middle School League (CMSL). This is the first school year that students who participate in our competitive athletic offerings are able compete alongside other private school teams in the Bellevue and Redmond area. The league emphasizes sportsmanship as its top priority, and we’re committed to ensuring every athlete experiences a positive and uplifting environment while competing. With a variety of sports offered from soccer and volleyball in the fall, to basketball in the winter and track and field in the spring, there is never a dull moment for our student athletes!

Our Physical Education SET and Athletic Coordinator, Mr. Shelp, is particularly passionate about the integration of our sports and athletic programs at BLV.

“I believe the world of sports reveals the finest qualities of humanity. The unwavering grit, sportsmanship, discipline and competitive spirit of athletes inspire us all, bringing the world together in ways that surpass boarders. I am confident that establishing a robust sports program at BASIS Independent Bellevue will likewise inspire excellence and unity within our school community. It is a joy to be part of building something so meaningful.” – Mr. Shelp

This school year is only the beginning of competitive athletics for BASIS Independent Bellevue, and all of our teams have already shown a great deal of promise.

Our soccer team’s inaugural season in 2024 —2025 was a huge success, finishing with a .500 record – an impressive feat for a team mostly made up of 6th and 7th graders! Our Head of School, Dr. Elizabeth Thies, is particularly passionate about the soccer team. She served as their head coach last year, while this year she stepped into the assistant coach role.

“Standing on the sidelines and acting as a coach in any capacity gives me an opportunity to work with my students in a different way. I absolutely love that!” – Dr. Thies

The head coach for this season was Chemistry SET, Ms. Abele!

“Being a student athlete is about more than the game – it is about teamwork, trust, and pushing your limits for something bigger than yourself. The bonds and lessons you build with your peers last a lifetime. It was a pleasure to watch our soccer players build these bonds this year. They showed grit and determination in so many ways and I know they will only continue to grow in the next season” – Ms. Abele

Our track and field team has also seen remarkable success in the 2024 — 2025 season, with multiple athletes claiming 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishes in events such as long jump, the 400 meter, and shot put. The head coach, Science SET Ms. Bryant, is very proud of their hard work this season.

Meanwhile, in volleyball, our team tied for first place in the season-ending Jamboree tournament, proving they are a force to be reckoned with in the CMSL. The head coach, English SET Ms. Fischer, was delighted by their performance this year.

“Our first official year as a competitive volleyball team was amazing! Our team was young, but so quick to learn the fundamentals of the sport and the rules of the court. Each player showed tremendous growth over the course of the season. I was particularly impressed with how cohesive our team became, and how much support the athletes showed each other in practices and games. I look forward to another great season!” – Ms. Fischer

Ms. Fischer is delighted to share that she is going to be coaching a volleyball camp this summer, on campus here at BASIS Independent Bellevue. This will be a great opportunity for students to work on their skills for the 2025 — 2026 school year. For more information about our summer programs, click here!

Last year, in the 2023 — 2024 season, our basketball team showcased their talent and determination, finishing with a stellar 7 – 2 record. Their performance showcased impressive wins and brought the school community closer with a thrilling Blackout Game. With the band playing, foam fingers waving and our Sasquatch mascot making an appearance, the energy was electric as we celebrated a victory. The Mountaineers are a force to be reckoned with and the excitement continues as they have just kicked off the 2024 — 2025 basketball season!

As we near the end of the 2024 — 2025 athletic season, it’s clear that BLV’s sports teams have left their mark both on and off the field. From thrilling victories to hard-fought battles, each team demonstrated unwavering determination, teamwork, and school pride. These accomplishments are a testament to the dedication of our athletes, coaches, and supporters who make every game and practice count. We send a special thank you to our athletic coordinator, Mr. Shelp, for his endless dedication to the growth of our athletic department and we cannot wait to see that continue for many seasons to come. Go Mountaineers!