The REPORTER
The Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) today announced a three-year presenting partnership renewal with the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts to continue in support of Indiana high school football.
This marks the 15th year of the agreement first struck in 2009 when the Colts organization began its support of the entire football state tournament, ensuring that the state championship games would continue to be played at Lucas Oil Stadium. At that time, the Colts became the first professional sports franchise in the country to partner with a high school association for this type of sponsorship.
“The IHSAA is so excited and grateful to continue this partnership with the Indianapolis Colts,” said IHSAA Commissioner Paul Neidig. “Without the Colts and their support, Indiana high school football wouldn’t be as spectacular as it is on Friday nights in the fall.”
“We love and appreciate the values, like preparation, discipline, teamwork and inclusion, that football teaches, so we are honored to support youth and high school football at every level in our state,” said Mike Prior, Colts Football Development Commissioner and former Colts great. “This partnership with the IHSAA continues our commitment to growing the game of football in Indiana and opening opportunities in the sport to all.”
The Colts and IHSAA also have partnered on other initiatives, most notably girls high school flag football. In 2023, the Colts started the Girls Flag Football Pilot League, fueled by Gatorade, with eight high school girls’ teams representing Indianapolis and South Bend. They also have hosted clinics, jamborees, and other events, with the long-term goal of developing girls flag football as a sanctioned varsity sport in Indiana. For more info, visit Colts.com/Flag.