The State of Girls Participation in Sports in Indiana

Girls’ sports participation in Indiana is on the rise, thanks to a wave of advocacy, investment, and expanding opportunities. In recent years, the Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) has sanctioned additional sports such as girls' wrestling, recognizing the rapid increase in involvement across the state. Grassroots organizations, local leagues, and school programs are also offering broader access to sports like soccer, rugby, lacrosse, and flag football. With the support of entities like the Indianapolis Colts and initiatives such as Girls on the Run and Indiana Girls Basketball, more young women than ever are stepping onto courts, fields, and tracks with confidence.

Still, challenges remain. The long-standing popularity of sports like girls’ basketball has faced steady decline, partly due to over-specialization and the increasing costs of participation in competitive leagues. Many families struggle with access and affordability, which can limit a young athlete’s ability to compete. However, community-driven programs, scholarship initiatives, and partnerships with schools and non-profits are helping to bridge that gap. The creation of girl-centered training spaces like Marvella Sports shows a strong commitment to not just keeping girls in the game, but helping them thrive.

Indiana stands at the forefront of a cultural shift—one that sees girls’ sports not as a secondary opportunity, but as a powerful platform for leadership, growth, and equity. When girls play, they learn teamwork, resilience, and courage that extends far beyond the scoreboard. The next generation of Indiana athletes is not only chasing championships—they’re redefining what’s possible for women in sports. And their momentum is unstoppable.