The BYU Cougars have emerged as serious contenders for the Big 12 title and a coveted spot in the College Football Playoff, thanks in large part to the impressive performances of true freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier. The young athlete hails from Murrieta, California, where he has benefited from a supportive and athletic family.
Bear is the youngest of five siblings, surrounded by a strong family background that includes three brothers and an older sister. His brothers—Hank and Tiger—have already made their mark in football, paving the way for Bear to follow his passion. Hank, a former four-star quarterback, had a stellar collegiate career at Boise State before transferring to Louisiana Tech and eventually playing for Wake Forest. His experience and mentorship have been invaluable to Bear, who looks up to his brother as a role model.
Tiger, whose real name is James, currently plays alongside Bear at BYU. The nickname “Tiger” is a family tradition linked to their grandfather, a WWII veteran. He previously spent time at Stanford, showcasing his talent as a receiver. Bear’s younger brother, Buck, is also showing promise in high school, playing quarterback and linebacker, while another sister, Eleanor, excels in track at Redlands University, having earned multiple All-American honors.
Their parents, Michael and April Bachmeier, have instilled a strong work ethic and family values in their children. Michael, a U.S. Naval Academy graduate, overcame a brain tumor diagnosis in 2019, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity. April’s background includes a childhood in Thailand, and she has homeschooled her children to ensure they can fully commit to their athletic training. She also prepared memorable meals for the family, contributing to their close-knit existence.
Despite the strenuous journey of high-level athletics, the Bachmeiers maintain their Catholic faith, attending church in Orem, Utah. Their upbringing in the mountains of California, coupled with their busy sports schedules, has created what Hank describes as “organized chaos,” emphasizing the importance of family support in their endeavors.
Bear Bachmeier’s journey with the Cougars illustrates not only individual talent but also the power of family connections. As Bear continues to develop his skills on the field, he carries with him the legacy and support of his family, which undoubtedly inspires hope for the future of his and the Cougars’ athletic success.