Eyes on Her: Indiana’s Women in Sports and the Power of Progress

This article was published within the August 2025 issue of the Women’s Fund’s Diane magazine.

We see obvious examples, like Caitlin Clark’s meteoric arrival to the Indiana Fever and WNBA last year; or Central Indiana’s newest pro team, the Indy Ignite, making it to the championship game in their first season in the Pro Volleyball Federation.

Outside the court we have figures like Caitlin Cooper, an Indiana basketball analyst who captured national media attention for her Einstein-level breakdowns of the Pacers’ historic playoff run.

Even sports bars are coming around. When The Sports Bra opens in Indy later in 2025, it will be one of only five national locations for the franchise dedicated to women’s athletics.

But winning on the court and in the wider sports industry is not the only way to measure success.

In Central Indiana, women athletes are also educators, advocates, and mentors. They embody the same kind of leadership women provide across every sector.

For example, Tamika Catchings remains a towering (literally/ figuratively) role model, not only for her achievements with the Indiana Fever and U.S. Olympic team, but also her long-standing investment in the community through the Catch the Stars Foundation. Her work with Central Indiana youth blends fitness, literacy and goal setting. It reflects the intersectional needs identified in the State of Women in Central Indiana Report, where educational outcomes, physical health, and economic opportunity are deeply interwoven.

Women’s Fund has also honored national and local leaders like Billie Jean King, Allyson Felix, Allison Barber and Olivia West, each of whom has moved the needle toward equity in both high profile and behind-thescenes roles. Their voices drive national attention to issues such as pay fairness, maternal health, and inclusive hiring, while underscoring the importance of grassroots action.

This year marks 52 years since the passing of Title IX, the landmark legislation that expanded educational and athletic access for women and girls. Co-authored by U.S. Senator from Indiana, Birch Bayh, its impact is pervasive today, from higher rates of girls’ sports participation to more women in coaching roles and athletic departments. But the gaps remain. The State of Women Report shows that disparities in opportunity and representation persist across race, class and geography. These gaps show up in sports, and across systems women engage with every day, including childcare, healthcare, housing and career advancement.

Organizations like WISE Indianapolis and Indiana Sports Corp move this work forward. Both have deep connections to Women’s Fund through past sponsorship, OPTIONS Alumnae, and board and committee service. These organizations help ensure that women are not only participating in sports but also shaping its future. Through professional development, mentorship and advocacy, they are strengthening the infrastructure that surrounds women in athletics and related fields.

Supporting women in sports is more than presence on the roster. It is about building systems of support, creating pathways for success, and ensuring that every girl and woman can fully step into her potential.

At Women’s Fund, we believe sports can ignite confidence, belonging and lasting change. That is a future we are proud to support and celebrate.

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Please note: You may notice our former name in this content, as this piece was published before Women’s Fund of Central Indiana became Women’s Foundation of Indiana. Learn more about our evolution »