Incorporated in December 1979, Indiana Sports Corporation is the nation’s first sports commission. This private, not-for-profit organization was initiated by a coalition of government and business leaders to implement the city’s objective of becoming a sports capital.
Under the direction of Sandy Knapp, the agency’s president and executive director from 1980 to 1991, Indiana Sports Corporation initiated efforts to bring major sporting events to Indianapolis. One of the first large-scale events the organization landed was , which was held in Indianapolis in July 1982.
Indiana Sports Corporation was also instrumental in the city hosting the . This international, Olympic-style, multi-sport competition took place at various venues around Indianapolis in August 1987.
Bringing sports organizations to Indianapolis has been another major objective for the agency. It attracted several groups to the city, including USA Diving, USA Track and Field, USA Gymnastics Federation, USA Football, and the (See ). These organizations have held several high-profile events in Indianapolis.
By 2020, Indiana Sports Corporation had played host to over 450 national and international sporting events, including U.S. Olympic Team Trials, NCAA Men’s and Women’s championships, Big Ten Football Championships, NBA All-Star games, and . These events help support the agency’s mission of improving the city’s image, enhancing the city’s quality of life, stimulating the city’s economy, and providing opportunities for youth.
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