BEYOND
the Game
When Najmir Bellegarde weighed his college options, football scholarships were on the table from multiple programs. For the Georgia native, the decision was never only about football. He was searching for a place where he could grow beyond the game. Now a junior majoring in business administration management, Bellegarde knew early on that the University of Pikeville offered something the other programs could not. “It ultimately came down to where I could develop and grow as a person and find my identity within myself,” Bellegarde said. “UPIKE really believes that no matter where you come from, if you come here, you will walk across that commencement stage and earn that degree.” Within the Bears football program, Bellegarde found more than teammates. He found a community that quickly felt like home.
“The culture and brotherhood within UPIKE football is something very special,” he said. “It’s bigger than football. It’s about loving and supporting each other.”
That culture is reinforced by Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Corey Fipps, whose unifying message has stayed with Bellegarde. Fipps often reminds players, “Heaven might look like a football locker room filled with people from every background united as one,” that a football locker room filled with people from different backgrounds coming together as one reflects something powerful.
“That message represents exactly what our program is about,” he said. “Unity, diversity and loving one another like family. The culture we have here is amazing because it’s built on trust, accountability and genuine care for each other. We push each other to be better every day, not just as football players but as men.” 18
UPIKE MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2026
Bellegarde also saw opportunity in the university’s continued investment in athletics. The Bear Mountain initiative, which will transform UPIKE’s athletic facilities, played a role in his decision to become a Bear.
“Bear Mountain played a major role in my decision to come to UPIKE. It has the potential to bring more people to campus and build pride within the community. Being here during a time when the university is growing makes me feel like I am a part of something bigger than just my time as a player.” Beyond football, he is involved in campus leadership as a member of the Student Leadership Council, which helps connect students with clubs, community service and leadership opportunities. Looking ahead, Bellegarde is considering several career paths after graduation, including project management, starting his own business or possibly coaching. Whatever path he chooses, the experience of balancing athletics and academics has prepared him well.
“Between practices, workouts, travel and schoolwork, I’ve learned that staying organized and managing my time effectively is critical,” he said. “The work ethic, perseverance and ability to handle pressure that I have developed here will carry over into any career or challenge I face.”
By Stacey Walters