Travis Peterson Returns to Coaching as New Head of BHS Girls Basketball Program

BEMIDJI — Travis Peterson has made a significant return to coaching, taking the helm of the Bemidji High School girls basketball team after a brief hiatus. In 2020, after five successful years leading the boys basketball program, Peterson stepped down to devote more time to his family. Although he initially hesitated when asked by former girls head coach Steve Schreiber to join as an assistant, a message from a former player reignited his passion for the sport.

"I haven't told this story to very many people," Peterson shared with the Pioneer. "It was just a very simple text message, where he thanked me for believing in him when he didn't believe in himself. That made my decision pretty easy." This heartfelt message motivated Peterson to remain involved in coaching, where he aimed to inspire another generation of athletes.

During the recent season, Peterson found himself stepping into the role of interim head coach when Darin Schultz, the current head coach, had to take a leave for personal reasons. This experience provided Peterson with a taste of head coaching again after five years, and he was later honored as the assistant coach of the year by BHS.

When Schultz resigned at the end of the season, Peterson was the clear choice to lead the girls' program. "I think that our head coaches have a lot of responsibility at Bemidji High School, and I've been there before," he remarked. "It's kind of a year-round thing, so I'm well aware of the things that come with it, but I'm excited about it." Previously, Peterson had achieved a remarkable 91-43 record with the boys' team, guiding them to their first state tournament in over 30 years.

Peterson's strong connection with his coaching colleagues, particularly with Thompson, the current boys' head coach, has been a cornerstone of his coaching career. They have maintained a collaborative relationship, which Thompson believes will benefit both programs moving forward. "Having coached with him in the past, I know firsthand the passion, commitment, and energy he brings every day," Thompson stated. "The program is in very good hands."

As Peterson prepares for the upcoming season, he is aware of the challenges ahead, particularly with the loss of seven seniors from last year's team. He plans to uphold the strong defensive identity established under Schultz while also infusing his own strategies. "I think our defense will shift a little bit," he noted. "I think we're going to probably try to ramp up the pressure and probably gamble a little more than we have in the last few years." With a mix of old and new tactics, Peterson is committed to developing his young team into a competitive force.