Bellevue West High School, located in Bellevue, Nebraska, has a proud and storied athletic history. Established in 1977, Bellevue West quickly became a force in Nebraska high school sports, developing a reputation for producing top-tier athletes, competitive teams, and a culture of excellence. Over the decades, the school has won numerous state championships, sent athletes to collegiate and professional levels, and has become a focal point of pride for the Bellevue community. This article explores the key moments and accomplishments that define the athletic history of Bellevue West High School.
The Formation of Bellevue West
Bellevue West High School was founded in 1977 as the second high school in Bellevue, following the population growth in the area. Bellevue East had been the sole high school for the community until the rapid expansion of Bellevue and the nearby Offutt Air Force Base necessitated the construction of another school. With the establishment of Bellevue West, a new chapter in the athletic history of Bellevue began.
From the beginning, Bellevue West athletes adopted the “Thunderbirds” as their mascot and maroon and gold as their school colors. The athletic programs started to take shape with a focus on football, basketball, track and field, wrestling, and baseball. The split from Bellevue East allowed Bellevue West to create its own athletic identity, and both schools quickly became fierce rivals.
Early Success in Football and Basketball
In its early years, Bellevue West’s athletic programs developed quickly, particularly in football and basketball. The football team laid the foundation for future success under various coaches who emphasized discipline, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence. By the late 1980s, the Thunderbirds were consistently competitive in Class A, Nebraska’s largest classification for high schools. This success would eventually set the stage for one of the most dominant periods in Bellevue West’s football history.
Basketball also became a key part of Bellevue West’s athletic tradition. The boys’ basketball program, in particular, achieved success early on, producing teams that regularly competed in district and state tournaments. The program’s emphasis on teamwork and strong fundamentals helped Bellevue West establish itself as a contender in Nebraska high school basketball.
Rise to Prominence: State Championships in Football
Bellevue West football achieved its greatest success beginning in the mid-2000s, culminating in multiple state championships that elevated the program to elite status in Nebraska. Under the leadership of head coach Michael Huffman, the Thunderbirds won their first-ever state football championship in 2016. That year, Bellevue West went undefeated, capping their remarkable season with a dominant 43-6 victory over Omaha North in the Class A state championship game.
The 2016 state championship season was a breakthrough moment for Bellevue West football, cementing the program’s place among Nebraska’s high school football elite. The team’s potent offense, led by standout quarterback Tristan Gebbia, who later went on to play at Oregon State, set records and showcased the high level of talent emerging from the program.
Bellevue West repeated their state championship success in 2019, once again going undefeated and defeating Omaha Westside 35-0 in the Class A final. The team’s dominant run in 2019 was marked by a balanced offense and a stifling defense, continuing the tradition of excellence that had been built over the previous decade.
Success in Other Sports: Basketball, Track & Field, and More
While football has been the most celebrated sport at Bellevue West, the school’s athletic success extends to a wide range of sports. Bellevue West’s basketball program, particularly on the boys’ side, has enjoyed tremendous success over the years. The boys’ basketball team won state championships in 2000, 2005, and 2017, with the 2005 team being particularly dominant. Under head coach Doug Woodard, the Thunderbirds developed into a perennial contender, regularly advancing deep into the state tournament and producing numerous all-state players.
The girls’ basketball program at Bellevue West has also been successful, with multiple state tournament appearances and a strong tradition of producing talented players. The program’s commitment to fundamentals and strong coaching has made Bellevue West a consistent presence in Nebraska high school girls’ basketball.
Track and field has been another area of success for Bellevue West, with individual athletes excelling in various events at the state level. The Thunderbirds have produced standout sprinters, jumpers, and distance runners who have won state championships and set records. Bellevue West’s track and field program is known for its depth and its ability to develop athletes across multiple disciplines.
Wrestling, Baseball, and Volleyball
Bellevue West’s wrestling program has produced state champions and highly competitive teams over the years. Wrestling at Bellevue West emphasizes toughness and discipline, with several athletes advancing to the state tournament and earning individual honors. The program has a proud history of fostering the development of student-athletes who compete at the highest level of Nebraska high school wrestling.
In baseball, Bellevue West has also made significant strides, with teams regularly competing at a high level. The baseball program has produced several state tournament appearances, and many athletes have gone on to compete at the collegiate level. Bellevue West’s baseball teams are known for their strong fundamentals and competitive spirit.
The volleyball program has seen success as well, with multiple state tournament appearances and consistently competitive teams. Bellevue West’s volleyball teams have developed a reputation for excellence, regularly competing against the top programs in Nebraska and producing standout players who continue their careers at the collegiate level.
The Modern Era: Continued Excellence and Legacy
In recent years, Bellevue West has continued to excel in multiple sports, maintaining its status as one of the premier athletic programs in Nebraska. The school’s athletic facilities, coaching staff, and community support have all contributed to its ongoing success. In addition to football and basketball, Bellevue West’s cross country, soccer, and softball programs have also enjoyed strong seasons, with athletes regularly competing at the state level.
Bellevue West has produced a number of athletes who have gone on to compete at the collegiate and professional levels. Notable alumni include:
- Tristan Gebbia, the quarterback of the 2016 state championship football team, who went on to play at Oregon State.
- Caden Helms, a football standout who played tight end at the University of Oklahoma.
- Chucky Hepburn, a star basketball player who led Bellevue West to a state championship in 2020 before joining the University of Wisconsin’s basketball program.
These athletes have helped raise Bellevue West’s profile on a national level and have inspired future generations of Thunderbirds to pursue excellence in both athletics and academics.
Conclusion
Bellevue West High School’s athletic history is one of achievement, perseverance, and community pride. From its humble beginnings in 1977 to becoming one of Nebraska’s top high school athletic programs, Bellevue West has produced champions, role models, and memories that will last a lifetime. The Thunderbirds’ tradition of excellence continues to thrive, and as the school looks to the future, its athletic programs are sure to inspire the next generation of student-athletes to achieve greatness both on and off the field.
