The Owensboro Knights Christian Homeschool Athletics program was formed in 2018 to become a thriving community providing competitive opportunities for homeschooled middle and high school students in the Owensboro area.
Motivated by the lack of such programs in Owensboro compared to larger cities, Dan Bitters formed the Knights basketball program to meet the needs of his son Blake and others in the homeschool community.
The team began with 11 players, primarily middle school-aged, and has grown steadily each season. Bitters emphasizes the team is a family and a ministry, incorporating teaching beyond sports. Over the seasons, the team has developed significantly, achieving winning records and expanding to 31 players across different grade levels. They have also extended their offerings to include high school baseball, girls’ high school softball, and girls’ volleyball.
“We had 6 boys at our first practice, then added 5 more, and had 11 total players, mostly middle school-aged, with a few high school-aged boys,” Bitters said. “Most didn’t have competitive team experience outside of recreational/upward leagues. We put together a small schedule for that first season, playing against private and Christian school teams and some very good homeschool programs from Evansville and Bowling Green.”
The current roster combines experienced juniors and seniors with talented youth, creating a well-balanced and deep varsity group. Six of the team’s members have been together since Day 1, creating a high level of chemistry. He said they also boast strong perimeter guards, effective bigs, and contributions from bench players.
Those 6 players include Blake Bitters, Gary Hunley, Cam Casey, Joey Johnson, Carpenter Ekbundit, and Sam Butler. Other key members are Josiah Houston, Charlie Fogle, Jed Gunderson, Jack Fogle, and Luke Reffitt.
The Knights prefer a fast-paced game, pressing when they can and capitalizing on transition opportunities. They’ve tallied 70 points multiple times this season and have a particular focus on 3-point shooting. Bitters acknowledges the need for improvement in half-court defense and executing the half-court offense.
“We’re currently in the KCSAA, which comprises 28 schools — a majority private — and 5-6 homeschool programs,” Bitters said. “We’re also on the approved KHSAA list of teams. The KCSAA has some powerful teams, but playing the larger KHSAA schools has provided a big challenge for our boys.”
The team has set ambitious goals for the season, including winning 30 games, repeating as KCSAA state JV champs, winning KHSAA games, and aiming for success in both the KCSAA and NCSAA tournaments. Bitters emphasizes the team’s commitment to glorifying God, supporting each other’s faith growth, and maintaining a solid brotherhood.
Bitters expresses gratitude for the strong support from parents and local churches contributing to the team’s success. Bellevue Baptist Church serves as the home gym, with additional support from First Baptist Church, Third Baptist Church, Life Community, and Walnut Memorial. The close-knit community, strong faith foundation, and commitment to both personal and athletic growth define the Owensboro Knights Christian Homeschool Athletics program.
“Debbie, my wife, and I feel like the Knights family is another church life group,” Bitters said. “I also have to mention the involvement of our parents, who help with all of the volunteer needs. Many of the families have grown to become close friends.”
