• About Biddy
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• Rule Book
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  • 2010 Results
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  • Boys 8 Yr Old National Tournament
  • Boys 10 Yr Old National Tournament
  • Boys 12 Yr Old National Tournament
  • Girls International Tournament

THE HISTORY OF BIDDY BASKETBALL

Biddy Basketball was originated in 1951 by Jay Archer, Executive Director of the Youth Center in Scranton, Pennsylvania. The game of Biddy Basketball was developed to teach both boys and girls the skills and fundamentals of basketball. Instituting the concepts of an imposed height limit, shorter goals, and a smaller ball made the game of basketball competitive for younger players.

By the mid-1950’s, Biddy had spread nationwide with tournaments held to determine a national champion for 12 year old boys.  The U.S. government recognized the value of Biddy and sent Jay Archer to South America and Asia as a good-will measure to conduct basketbal clinics and begin Biddy programs.  Jay Archer’s dream came true in 1967 with the first World Tournament in which teams from 10 nations and commonwealths participated.

Henry "Dunk" Beter became Director of Biddy Basketball in 1970 following the loss of Jay Archer. As a former Director of the New Orleans Recreation Department, "Dunk" was well aware of the value of youth sports in the development of a child's character and physical capabilities. Biddy continued to grow under "Dunk's" leadership with the addition of the boys 8 and 10 year old age bracket, as well as, the girls division.

Coach Firmin Simms (3rd from Left; National Director) shown here in 1963 with his 12 yr old  New Orleans Biddy Team.  Jay Archer (B.B. originator; far right) awards the New Orleans team with a championship trophy.

Following "Dunk's" retirement in 1996, Firmin Simms, who had been active in coaching for the New Orleans Recreation Department since 1955, as well as, serving as Assistant Director of Biddy Basketball under "Dunk" Beter, assumed the role as Director. As an active advocate of youth sports, Biddy Basketball continues to thrive under his direction and we continue to see many Biddy athletes progressing into the high school, collegiate, and professional ranks.

We owe Jay Archer and Henry Beter much. Fortunately, we have many outstanding volunteers and coaches who recognize the worth of the program and are helping to continue the vision of Biddy Basketball. Their hard work and dedication enable Biddy Basketball to flourish and to continue the development of basketball skills in these young athletes. With God's continued blessing and love, Biddy will continue to serve millions of youngsters throughout the world.