Lilly, Caitlin Clark Foundation, and Musco Lighting Unveil New Community Sports Courts in Indianapolis
In an exciting move for the youth of Indianapolis, Eli Lilly and Company, in collaboration with the Caitlin Clark Foundation and Musco Lighting, has launched three new multi-sport courts. This initiative aims to enhance access to safe and high-quality spaces for children to play sports year-round, reflecting a strong commitment to community engagement.
The newly opened courts consist of two locations at Indianapolis Public Schools—specifically, Clarence Farrington School and Edison School of the Arts—and one public court situated at the intersection of E. South Street and S. New Jersey Street. This public facility is notably part of Lilly's broader efforts as the company celebrates its 150th anniversary.
Caitlin Clark, founder of the Caitlin Clark Foundation, has a personal connection to this initiative as she has long advocated for providing youth with sporting opportunities. "Growing up, I cherished the time spent outdoors playing different sports with friends and family. Those moments were foundational for my personal growth," Clark emphasized, underscoring the importance of the new courts.
The development of these courts is not just about physical activity; it is also about fostering community spirit. As Mary Coffin, President of the Caitlin Clark Foundation, puts it, "Caitlin has always believed in the transformative power of sports for youth, cultivating confidence, discipline, and opportunity." The new courts are designed to be inclusive, ensuring that all young people can engage in sports regardless of their background.
Lilly’s provision of the public court is a significant step in reinforcing its connection to the community. As Melissa Coe, Associate Vice President of Social Impact and Community Engagement at Lilly, stated, "Health extends beyond medicine. It encompasses the environments that encourage physical activity and social interaction. We are proud to partner with the Caitlin Clark Foundation to create spaces for families and youth to thrive together."
The courts will remain accessible to the public, maintained by Indy Parks and Recreation, and are equipped with Musco's Mini-Pitch System™. These facilities cater to basketball, soccer, and futsal, and feature lighting and ADA-accessible enhancements to ensure a welcoming environment for all users.
Indy Parks Director Brittany Crone expressed gratitude for the contributions from Lilly and the Caitlin Clark Foundation, outlining how the new park will serve as a vibrant destination in downtown Indianapolis and promote community bonding through play.
Jeff Rogers, CEO of Musco, highlighted the lasting impact these courts could have on local families and youth. He remarked, "Every kid and family deserves a community hub, and these courts will provide just that for Indianapolis."
Overall, this project represents more than just the construction of sports facilities; it is a commitment to empowering youth and encouraging healthy lifestyles through active play. By establishing such welcoming environments, the Caitlin Clark Foundation, Lilly, and Musco Lighting are paving the way for generations of Indianapolis youth to enjoy the many benefits of engaging in sports, community, and camaraderie, helping them to grow, connect, and thrive in their neighborhoods.
As the initiative moves forward, it stands as a testimony to the shared conviction that investment in youth sports leads to stronger, more connected communities, and Lilly, the Caitlin Clark Foundation, and Musco Lighting are key players driving this vision forward.