Long ago, in the warm, welcoming woods near Bryant, a small bear cub named Champ took his first steps through the doors of Bryant Youth Association. Nervous but excited, Champ didn’t know what to expect — he just knew he wanted to play, learn, and grow. From his very first color wars game to his first much needed chat with his mentor, Champ discovered something special about BYA: he wasn’t alone.
You see, Champ didn’t just find new friends — he found champions.
Champ learned that champions aren’t always the biggest or the strongest. Sometimes they’re the ones who cheer the loudest from the sidelines, who pick you up when you fall, and who remind you to believe in yourself — no matter what. As he grew, so did his courage, kindness, and love for BYA. With every season, Champ became a little braver, a little wiser, and a lot more thoughtful.
Now fully grown, Champ has returned to BYA — not just as a former member, but as a mascot, and a symbol of everything the Bryant Youth Association stands for. Bears like Champ represent courage, strength, and protection — all the values we hope to inspire in every child who walks through our doors.
Champ’s mission is simple: to make sure every child at BYA has a champion in their corner — because every child deserves one.
So when you see Champ waving from the sidelines or visiting your classroom, know this: he’s not just our mascot. He’s a reminder that here at BYA, we’re all part of something bigger — a family of champions.