Inspire Girls Basketball: Building Skills and Confidence

A community-driven club helping girls grow on and off the court

By Like Media Team

In Bonners Ferry, the Inspire Girls Basketball Club gives young athletes the opportunity to develop their skills, build confidence, and foster a love for the game. Founded by Tomi Bateman, the club provides a supportive environment for girls to train, compete, and grow. Since its inception, the club has flourished thanks to the support of parents, volunteers, and community members. From coaching and organizing events to fundraising and cheering from the sidelines, their dedication has helped build a program where girls can play, learn, and be part of something bigger.

“My desire to start a basketball club in Bonners Ferry comes from the simple facts that I love basketball and Bonners Ferry,” Bateman shares. “For a time, it felt like I had to choose between the two—leave to find a place where competitive basketball already existed or figure out a way to bring it here.”

I remember the moment I decided to take the leap and start the club. Driving to Kalispell, MT, with my husband Jed to watch high school basketball, I told him, “I’ve got to do this. Let’s think of a name.” I wanted something meaningful—something that reflected the club’s mission beyond basketball. As we tossed around ideas, Jed said, “Inspire.” It was perfect. My hope is that Inspire motivates, uplifts, and influences its members and everyone we meet along the way.

Currently, the club serves 74 girls from 4th through 12th grade, providing coaching, practice opportunities, and a chance to compete. Whether players are just learning the game or looking to sharpen their skills, they get the experience they need to grow. Inspire hopes to expand its reach to even younger athletes in the future.

The Inspire Girls Basketball Club relies on community support to thrive. “I am so grateful for the wonderful support Inspire Girls Basketball has received,” Bateman says. “Alan and Cathi Winkelseth have been our biggest financial supporters, donating money toward equipment, league and tournament fees, and providing custom basketball bags for each girl. A huge shoutout to Wink Inc. for all the love and support. A special thank you to Panhandle Ice, Car Quest, Next Home 365 Realty, and Froyo Mama.”

She also emphasizes the importance of the coaching staff. “Inspire would not function without our coaches. I am so grateful for Sara Petersen, Star Williams, Clint Arthur, Shane Banning, Leroy Edwards, and Cory McReynolds for stepping up,” she says. “I am thankful for countless others who have supported us through their time, money, and encouragement. Inspire has the best parents. They love and serve their kids and this community with joy.”

The club focuses on more than competition—it provides meaningful experiences that shape young athletes. Whether attending college games, competing in local leagues, or participating in skill-building sessions, Inspire creates an environment where players can learn, grow, and be inspired.

“One of my favorite parts of Inspire is talking with the girls after each practice,” Bateman says. “We reflect on what we did well, what we need to improve, and discuss a motivational quote. One of my favorites is, ‘Massive goals don’t require massive action, they require consistent action.’”

Although Inspire operates independently of the school system, school funding changes could impact youth sports. The upcoming Maintenance and Operations (M&O) levy in May 2025 may determine the fate of many extracurricular activities. If it fails, school-sponsored programs could face budget cuts, limiting gym access for community clubs like Inspire. Sports, arts, drama, music, and other programs could lose access to school facilities.

“I love youth sports and believe they help our youth develop and grow,” Bateman explains. “Going to practice and playing in games was my driving force to go to school. School wasn’t easy for me, and at times, life was hard, but being in the gym helped me forget my troubles and just play. I will forever be grateful for sports as an avenue to learn and grow. If the levy doesn’t pass, we will no longer have access to gyms. This would be devastating to the Inspire Girls Basketball Club.”

Inspire Girls Basketball Club isn’t just about basketball—it’s about giving young athletes the tools they need to succeed on and off the court.

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