Meet the Owners
Patsy Elmer, "The Godmother"
Patsy's journey began with a passion for sewing and design, leading her to create her own clothes and gowns at a young age. After initially opening a bridal shop in Miami, Arizona, in 1985, she eventually moved to Phoenix in 1994. There, she honed her skills by taking a fashion illustration class and working as a production manager at Artcraft Sports Apparel.
In 2008, Patsy left Artcraft to take over a friend's alteration business, which ultimately led her to establish BTJ. Working from her home, she started stitching jerseys for Wayne Gretzky, Phoenix Suns, Arizona Rattlers, and even the Harlem Globetrotters.
In 2013, she received a recommendation from Stan Wilson, the equipment manager of the AZ Coyotes, to work with the Arizona Cardinals, marking her first job with the National Football League (NFL). Despite large sports apparel companies like Nike manufacturing the jerseys, Patsy and her team are responsible for the meticulous hand-stitched names and numbers, ensuring the uniforms fit perfectly. Her attention to detail, commitment to quality, and word-of-mouth advertising have contributed to her success.
During the COVID pandemic, when professional sports halted in March 2020, Patsy's team shifted focus to sewing and donated 2,000 masks to local hospitals. Despite challenges, Patsy's journey has been a dream come true, and she believes that life's unexpected twists can lead to even better opportunities.
Notably, BTJ acquired the San Jose Sharks and San Jose Barracudas ten years ago, and their reputation for beautiful jerseys led to additional clients, including Grand Canyon University, Arizona State University Hockey Team Shop, and most recently, the University of Arizona football team.
Patsy's life has not followed the path she initially envisioned, but she believes it has turned out far better than she could have imagined. She finds fulfillment in her work and looks forward to the new and exciting adventures that await her. Her story exemplifies resilience, creativity, and the ability to thrive even when faced with life-changing experiences.
Christine Elmer Collins, CEO
Christine Elmer Collins comes to Big Time Jerseys (BTJ) with a rich 30-year background in nursing and healthcare management and has served with distinction in both the United States Air Force and United States Public Health Service, Commissioned Corps. Her career highlights include critical care nursing during the Afghanistan War, leading the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), National Disaster Medical Service's Federal Patient Movement, and developing pivotal HHS Aeromedical Evacuation programs. She has also held significant roles within the Office of the United States Surgeon General, contributing to the efficacy of government operations and programs.
Born in Miami, Arizona, Christine is well-educated and holds degrees in healthcare services, business-organizational management, and nursing. After retiring from the military in 2022, she continues her commitment to veterans' care as the Clinical Director of Federal Programs at Valor Healthcare.
Now, Christine steps into a new leadership role as the Chief Executive Officer of BTJ, a family-owned business renowned for customizing game-worn jerseys.
Under her leadership, BTJ proudly stands as a certified service-disabled veteran-owned small business that continues to serve and honor the sports community and veterans alike with its exceptional craftsmanship and service.
