Geist Magazine January 2025 by Towne Post Network, Inc.

IGNITING PASSION

INDY IGNITE GEARING UP FOR INAUGURAL SEASON

+ Senior Living Special Section

A Clear Choice in Expert Window and Door Installation, Replacement and Sales

Writer / Ryan Gabbert

Getting repairs done or adding to your house can be incredibly stressful. More often than not, people associate household construction with high costs, unreliable contractors and a never-ending series of headaches.

Hometown Window and Door Company (HWDC) stands out as the exception. Locally owned and operated, HWDC provides expert window and door replacements throughout Indianapolis and the surrounding areas. Its expertise covers all types of windows and doors, including awnings, bay windows, sliding doors and more.

member brings years of experience and a commitment to doing the job right. Always going above and beyond, the team will paint windows and doors to match the home’s

David Hiatt, a resident of Geist, contacted HWDC in the spring of 2024 to replace his front door and add two sliding patio doors. He was immediately impressed with the level of customer service he received.

“The Hometown team worked closely with us through concept, design, to installation,” Hiatt says.

With a wide variety of customizable options from the Andersen product line, HWDC makes it easier than ever to create the home of your dreams.

“They guided us through product choices, colors and hardware,” Hiatt says.

HWDC takes pride in offering a full-service, white-glove installation team. Every team

When the job is finished, HWDC makes a point of following up with its customers to ensure that the work meets their expectations and satisfaction.

aesthetic and ensure the area is left spotless.

“Installation was seamless without any interruptions,” Hiatt says.

While there are more than a few similar companies in the Indianapolis area, what sets HWDC apart is its commitment to excellence. Its customers are everything, and it takes pride in serving the community with zeal and professionalism.

All customers can contact the office with any inquiries they might have, but HWDC takes it a step further. Customers have the personal cell number of their design consultant for any additional support they need throughout the process.

This level of customer service is a big reason why Hiatt chose HWDC.

“We interviewed four other window and door companies before choosing Hometown,” Hiatt says.

“Hometown Window and Door followed up afterward to ensure our satisfaction,” Hiatt says.

HWDC sets the standard when it comes to craftsmanship and customer service. While the work speaks for itself, the extra effort the team puts in to ensure the customers are happy and feel taken care of puts it above the competition. It should come as no surprise that HWDC is highly recommended by almost everyone who chooses it.

“We would definitely recommend Hometown to our friends and neighbors,” Hiatt says.

Having any construction done around the house can be a major pain, but it doesn’t have to be that way. HWDC continually builds on its positive reputation and guarantees that it will treat every customer like a neighbor.

If you would like more information about Hometown Window and Door Company, visit their website at hometownwindowteam. com, follow them on social media, or call them at 317-659-6293.

CONNECT

PUBLISHER JUSTIN ‘JD’ BIEHL justin@townepost.com (317) 294-7211 KEY CONTRIBUTORS

BRIAN BROSMER MICHAEL DURR RYAN GABBERT MELISSA GIBSON

RENÉE LARR NATALIE PLATT DR. PATRICK SIPARSKY ASHLEY WATTERS

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. FOUNDER, CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com (317) 496-3599 PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR ERIN TURK

CREATIVE DIRECTORS VAL AUSTIN TONI EADS DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL SERVICES

DEVON DEAN

COPY EDITOR JON SHOULDERS

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011 FOR FRANCHISE INFORMATION, VISIT FRANCHISING.TOWNEPOST.COM

CONTACT THE PUBLISHER Have a story idea or suggestion for the magazine?

ASK THE GEIST DECK AND DOCK EXPERTS

Chris Reed is the owner of Creed improvements specializing in building decks, pergolas, porches and more for Hamilton County families for over a decade. He enjoys building unique backyard spaces for his clients to create family memories of a lifetime. Chris has lived in Indy for over 30 years.

Each month Chris will be highlighting products and solutions for decks and docks. His major supplier is “Decks and Docks of Indianapolis”. His goal is to inform, educate and inspire renovations for the readers.

Chris Reed

IT’S TIME FOR A NEW DECK

A deck is a prime entertaining space and a go-to spot for hosting family and friends. An extension of the indoor living space, it’s often the best location to hold a summer barbecue or take in the view. As you browse deck designs, make sure to really consider the shape and elevation of your current space, and do your due diligence on which materials are right for you. Creed Improvements has been building decks for over 15 years in Indy. We serve approximately 15 to 20 clients each year, which means we design and consult on even more projects annually. This annual volume allows us to give our clients a unique perspective when it comes to designing their new deck.

WHAT DECK DESIGN WORKS FOR MY SPACE?

Since decks are custom built, it’s relatively easy to personalize the design around the client’s lifestyle. That being said, with countless options, there is a lot to consider. It’s important to consider all of your options before diving into the building process. A elevated deck design includes a staircase or a

few steps, which helps with backyard access, especially with two-story homes and walkout basements. Your deck might be attached to your home with multiple levels or areas for dining and grilling, as an example. You might opt for a freestanding platform, which is placed out in the yard and not attached to the house at all. Additionally, you might want to consider having part or all of the space covered or uncovered. Using a search engine to explore options often helps when considering these options. You can see a lot of pictures of our work on our Facebook page (search Creed Improvements). Our focused intention is to help you achieve your entertainment goals, and make sure your final choice blends well with your home’s current style and is safe and practical for your family, while meeting all local building codes.

WHICH DECK MATERIAL SHOULD I USE?

When reviewing deck ideas and the various material options, always keep price, appearance and ongoing maintenance in mind. Wood deck designs look

the most natural, but also require the most maintenance, like staining and weatherproofing. Composite, on the other hand, requires less maintenance and removes the chance of a splinters, but might not look as authentic The handrails also include glass and aluminum options in a variety of colors and styles. This is why we partner with Deck & Docks here in Indianapolis. Our clients enjoy visiting their showroom to see and touch examples of all the various materials. Their staff is a helpful and knowledgeable resource for our clients.

Ultimately our role is to help you decide what your sweet spot is between your style, taste, budget and maintenance considerations. When you are ready to transform your backyard entertainment space, reach out. We are currently designing for the 2025 building season.

Vintner’s Park Estates

Orchard at Vintner’s Park

Winter Fun in Hancock County

AHMED SALEH

DIGGING DEEP

MT. VERNON SENIOR AHMED SALEH OVERCOMES MAJOR INJURY EN ROUTE TO SUCCESS

Writer / Melissa Gibson

Looking back, some might have thought Ahmed Saleh would have been the next high school basketball star. It was his first love after all, but today he’s known as the guy who overcomes obstacles and stars in anything he puts his mind to.

The senior at Mt. Vernon High School has experienced a whirlwind over the past couple of years through changing sports, unexpected improvements, injuries and comebacks. It happened in a roundabout way; one sport led to another, and one skill built upon the other.

“In the sixth grade I was playing basketball and I started running to get into shape for the middle school team,” Saleh said. “It wasn’t until my sophomore year I started taking running more seriously.”

Saleh continued to improve by leaps and bounds.

“I started seeing a lot of success toward the end of my junior year in track,” he said. “I was getting really good, just really late.”

Then he broke his leg.

“I lost all my confidence in December of last

year,” he said. “I was in a cast for two months. I was in physical therapy, and for another two months I was just doing walking or light jogging. I didn’t start running until March of this year. I regained all that confidence from the support of my coach, teammates, parents and family.”

By June Saleh ran 4:48 in the 1,600 meters, and he continued to improve his time each week and at each meet.

Just nine weeks after being released to run, he ran a 4:12 in the 1,600.

“It was a huge accomplishment and I just continued to carry that momentum,” Saleh said. “I placed ninth at state and the team overall placed 16th. It was our first time at the state championship in a long time. I wasn’t expecting much because I wanted to go in with no expectations and no limits, so I feel pretty good about landing in the top 10 at the end of the season.”

Saleh said many people ask what he’s thinking about while he runs. What keeps him going?

“For me, think about the present and don’t think about how you’re going to feel in that fourth lap,” he said. “If you stay in the

moment, it’s easier. I heard a quote once that said, ‘When you feel pain in your mind, you’re only 40% done,’ so I tell people that you can go further than you think.”

He will still participate in track this spring before graduation.

“I just verbally committed to Indiana University Bloomington,” Saleh said. “I plan to go there and major in data science. I feel like that’s the best opportunity for my future.”

In the meantime he’s training, hanging out with friends, playing video games and playing very careful games of pickup basketball.

“I’m thankful for the position I’m in,” he said. “Not many people would be able to come back from an injury like that, and I think it’s thanks to all the support I received. If it wasn’t for Coach [Bruce] Kendall, my teammates and my family - I’m just really thankful they kept on me every day and they supported me the whole way.”

A Game Plan for Getting You Back to Doing What You Love

Central Indiana Orthopedics is proud to be part of the Fishers community. We are committed to providing expert, personalized care to all our patients. We offer comprehensive services all under one roof, including a Walk-In Clinic, sports medicine, outpatient surgery, physical therapy and more.

Visit ciocenter.com/Fishers for a complete list of services and find the hours of our Walk-In Clinc for sudden injuries. Or call 800-622-6575 to schedule an appointment.

ciocenter.com/Fishers

800-622-6575

MT. VERNON’S DR. JACK PARKER WINS 2024 EDTECH TRAILBLAZER AWARD

Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation Superintendent Dr. Jack Parker was recently awarded the 2024 Candice Dodson EdTech Trailblazer Award through the Indiana chapter of the Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) organization.

Presented by CoSN, a professional organization dedicated to advancing K through 12 educational technology leadership, this award recognizes transformative contributions to technology integration in education. It is given annually to an individual who has demonstrated transformative leadership in integrating technology into education.

Parker has made significant contributions to digital learning at Mt. Vernon through the development of PeDe, an AI chatbot designed to assist school administrators in navigating leadership dilemmas. PeDe offers school leaders a unique role-playing experience where they can describe real-world leadership challenges. The system guides them through relevant board policies, staff handbooks and district regulations, while asking strategic questions based on Mt. Vernon leadership principles such as decision making, ethical conduct and collaboration.

After each scenario, PeDe provides feedback and summarizes key leadership principles that could be applied, fostering leadership growth.

School officials say this tool has been invaluable for building and district administrators, ensuring that decisions are informed by both policy and best practices.

Parker also presented his PeDe program at the Indiana Association

of Public School Superintendents and the Mid-American Association of School Superintendents conferences.

“Dr. Parker has consistently supported the technology department and our efforts to align initiatives with the district’s strategic goals,” says Mt. Vernon Director of Technology Seth Hamilton. “His focus on thoughtful integration and innovation has encouraged us to find practical solutions that enhance teaching and learning, while providing functional improvements to district processes.”

Hamilton, who nominated Parker for the award, says the PeDe integration is already having a meaningful impact on students, staff and the community.

Parker will be the Indiana Chapter of CoSN’s nominee for the national CoSN and AASA EmpowerED Digital Superintendent of the Year Award, which will be awarded in March.

Left to Right Board Members Meghan Britt, Shannon Walls, Dr. Parker, Phil Edwards and Kellie Freeman

OUR APOLOGY AND CORRECTION

Geist Magazine sincerely apologizes for the incorrect use of photographs in our recent publication. It has come to my attention the images featured in the December issue of our Senior Student-Athlete Spotlight were published in error and did not accurately represent Anna Moore of Cathedral High School. This mistake was entirely unintentional, and I deeply regret any confusion or distress it may have caused to Anna and her family, Cathedral High School, and to our sponsor.

The incorrect photos were included due to a lapse in our editorial review process.

Upon realizing the error, we immediately took action to investigate how it occurred and have implemented stricter measures to ensure this does not happen again. These measures include enhanced fact-checking protocols and more rigorous oversight during our content production stages.

We are committed to upholding the trust and integrity that our readers expect from Geist Magazine. To this end, we have updated the digital version of the article to include the appropriate imagery.

We extend our sincerest apologies to

everyone who has been affected by this mistake and to our readers. Geist Magazine remains dedicated to accurate and responsible journalism. Thank you for your understanding as we work to rectify this matter and maintain your confidence in our publication.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us directly at justin@ townepost.com.

Sincerely,

Justin Biehl Owner/Publisher, Geist Magazine

NAVIGATING SENIOR HEALTH CARE CHALLENGES

Writer / Ashley Watters

Many families are struggling to gain access to funds to provide in-home and alternative care for their loved ones. What is this all about and what can families do?

We asked Jeff Stinson, certified elder law attorney at Stinson Law Firm, to shed some light on health care access in Indiana.

“This has been a difficult year for families in Indiana,” he says. “Funds that were previously readily available are no longer, and that has presented a real challenge for a lot of families.”

How did we get here? Under federal law, every state Medicaid program is required to offer coverage for nursing home care. But for many, a nursing home is not a desirable solution and many prefer alternative care options. The PathWays waiver and Health and Wellness waiver (formerly known as the Aged and Disabled

Waiver) allow for funds to be allocated to families who want to choose other options, such as home care, assisted living, and adult day care services. Recent changes in Indiana have caused thousands to be placed on a waitlist for these benefits, placing many elderly and disabled individuals in extremely difficult positions.

“Up until April of this year, there has been plenty of funding to meet demand,” says Stinson. “Most people could access the coverage they needed. We’d see occasional gaps in coverage from time to time, but for years there was plenty to go around. Suddenly we no longer have enough supply to meet the demand.”

These unfortunate changes surfaced after a $1 billion fiscal error was made in Family and Social Services. This is being corrected with money from the senior services budget. The error, coupled with the release of a new waiver system, created a perfect storm for

those in desperate need of services.

“I have clients who are literally being rendered homeless because they are on a waitlist waiting for these services,” says Stinson. “There is absolutely no sympathy for these folks.”

In July the state limited waiver spots to 800 per month, which was subsequently increased to 1,200 spots per month in October.

“At this pace it will take months for people on the waitlist to get care,” Stinson says. “All the while, the state is continually adding more people to the waitlist.”

Stinson recognizes that there are limited options for those in this unfortunate position, but he does have a few recommendations for those without care.

“The state gives priority to those leaving a hospital or nursing home,” he says. “If your loved one has a fall and has to be admitted to the hospital or rehabilitation, immediately apply to help expedite the process. I encourage people to consider the PACE [Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly] program as well. Indiana has some great PACE facilities and anyone who qualifies for Medicaid is eligible.”

While he does want to continue to raise awareness, he doesn’t hold a vision of the future that is all doom and gloom. He believes that Medicaid is a mainstay and will continue to help fund needed programs. Even so, he urges families to be outspoken.

“I encourage clients,” he says. “Talk to your legislator. Tell your story. Tell them why we need these alternatives. Studies have proven repeatedly that alternatives to nursing homes are cheaper than nursing homes. It makes no sense to limit these services. Legislators really need to know what is happening with budget cuts. Don’t just rubber-stamp a budget that cuts funding. Look at the people who will be affected.”

For more information on Stinson Law Firm, go to stinsonelderlaw.com.

SHEPHERDING POSITIVE CHANGE

THE SHEPHERD’S CENTER OF HAMILTON COUNTY HELPS THOSE 55 AND OLDER WITH A VARIETY OF PROGRAMS

Writer / Natalie Platt

/ Brian Brosmer

The Shepherd’s Center of Hamilton County, open since 1985 and located in Noblesville, offers five different programs that provide resources for seniors 55 and older. The programs have no income requirements and welcome any Hamilton County resident 55 or older, or caregivers in the county who are caring for someone 55 and older.

Those who qualify are invited to take part in the five main programs: Community Caring, Counseling Program, Guardianship Program, Reaching Resources, and Together Today.

Community Caring, launched in 2009, helps older adults age in place safely through volunteer support, while the Counseling Program provides free counseling services with a licensed therapist. The Guardianship Program promotes the dignity of incapacitated adults through legal advocacy, Reaching Resources connects seniors

with aging-related resources in Hamilton County. The last program, Together Today, prevents isolation and works to create a community for adults 55 and up.

“We’ve seen amazing growth in our Together Today program,” says Lauren Guynn, executive director. “It’s a great way to connect with others in the same stage in life. Social isolation is an epidemic and a lot of seniors that come into this program are just looking for ways to connect to others.”

loved ones qualify for,” Guynn says. “We really need to be here as a resource for our community and those caring for each other.”

In 2025 the Shepherd’s Center is focusing on one of the largest areas of need - case management, which involves connecting people with any resources they need to address aging, and expanding those resources to caregivers.

“Caregivers struggle too because they don’t know what is available and what their

The center sees a huge demand for their Counseling Program, an increase Guynn saw post-pandemic as people have continued to become more and more aware of how their mental health affects their overall well-being.

“Our aging residents are combating the

Photographer

stigma and truly committed to address any mental health issues they’re having,” Guynn says. “We really want to serve and fill that gap as best as we possibly can by supplying the resources needed.”

Looking ahead, Guynn says she has seen an increase in numbers of volunteers and is excited about how many people are stepping up and helping the aging community. Volunteers are essential to the

overall growth of the Shepherd’s Center, and she hopes to see the trend continue throughout 2025. Guynn says some of the growth is a silver lining of the pandemic, as there was fruitful collaboration between the community at large and local health partners, and more people became aware of what the Shepherd’s Center does.

“Volunteers are essential to our growth” Guynn says. “We have a small but mighty

team and our volunteers are the fold of our organization. We are so grateful for them and look forward to a promising year.”

The Shepherd’s Center of Hamilton County is located at 1250 Conner Street in Noblesville. You can reach the center at 317-674-8777, and learn more at shepherdscenterofhamiltoncounty.org.

ICE OR HEAT

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT PAIN RELIEF

Whether you face an injury to your bone or muscle or even arthritis in your joints, orthopedic experts are ready to help. However, slight to moderate pain does not always require a trip to see your doctor. In certain situations, an ice pack or heating pad can help you feel better more quickly. But it is important to know which to use in which situation to prevent further pain or even injury.

WHEN SHOULD YOU USE COLD THERAPY?

Cold therapy, such as a cold compress, should typically be used for recent injuries that have occurred within the last 48 hours and in which swelling is a problem. Apply the ice pack or even a bag of frozen food from the freezer to the injury. Make sure to wrap the frozen item in a towel or some kind of cloth. Applying a very cold item directly to your injury can cause damage to the skin and tissue. Make sure you use cold therapy as quickly as possible after the injury occurs, but only use it for short periods of time throughout the day. Stick to around 10 to 15 minutes at a time to prevent damage to your nerves, tissue and skin. For best results, elevate the injured area while using cold therapy.

Writer / Dr. Patrick Siparsky, Orthopedic Surgeon, IU Health Methodist Medical Plaza North

Dr. Patrick Siparsky

WHEN SHOULD YOU USE HEAT THERAPY?

Heat therapy should be used if you have pain or stiffness in your joints or muscles. Ten to 15 minutes of heat therapy can help relieve minor pain. Moderate to severe stiffness or tension can be helped with a longer session, such as a hot bath. For this level of pain, you can apply heat therapy from 30 minutes to up to two hours. A bath or sauna can also be used to treat full body pain. Small heat packs can be used on smaller areas of pain. For larger areas, you can use a larger heating pad, heat wraps or even a heated towel.

WHEN SHOULD YOU AVOID COLD OR HEAT PACKS?

Do not use cold therapy or heat therapy for open wounds, rashes or infections. Consult your doctor on other pain relief methods if you have poor sensation to heat or cold, if you have poor circulation or if you have been diagnosed with diabetes.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF THE TREATMENT DOESN’T WORK?

If cold therapy or heat therapy does not work or makes your pain worse, immediately contact your physician to discuss other treatment options. You should also let your doctor know if you develop any bruising or skin changes after using cold or heat packs.

WHEN SHOULD YOU SEE A DOCTOR FOR PAIN INSTEAD?

If you have severe or persistent issues with your upper body, including the shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand, or the lower body, including hips, knees, ankles and feet, it’s time to consult a physician.

IU Health can help treat your muscle and joint pain so you can move through life at your own pace. Our orthopedics experts are here to help you. For more information or to find an orthopedic specialist near you, visit iuhealth.org/orthopedics.

JANUARY AROUND THE COMMUNITY, 2025

DAVID GRAHAM & THE ESKIMO BROTHERS AT MOON DROPS DISTILLERY

Moon Drops Distillery, 738 W. Broadway St. 8 - 11 PM

We’re partying into the new year with our favorite American roots band David Graham & the Eskimo Brothers. eventbrite.com

THE MILITARY/VETERANS COALITION OF

INDIANA MONTHLY MEETING

VFW Post 7119, 6525 Lee Rd.

9:30 - 11 AM

We do three things: 1. Advocate, 2. Celebrate, and 3. Educate, all about the military and veterans in Indiana. We focus on legislation at the state level. events.in.gov

INDY FUEL VS. WHEELING NAILERS

Fishers Event Center, 11000 Stockdale St. 7 PM ticketmaster.com

INDY FUEL VS. WHEELING NAILERS

Fishers Event Center, 11000 Stockdale St. 7 PM

Join the Indy Fuel at the second annual Hockey Talks Night, as we strive to break the mental health stigma in Indiana. ticketmaster.com

11 INDY IGNITE VS ORLANDO VALKYRIES

Fishers Event Center, 11000 Stockdale St. 7 PM

Children 2 and under are admitted free with an accompanying adult ticket but must sit on a lap.

INDY

IGNITE VS GRAND RAPIDS RISE

Fishers Event Center, 11000 Stockdale St. 7 PM

Children 2 and under are free with an accompanying adult ticket but must sit on a lap.

17 COMIC BOOK IN A DAY

Ignite Studio at HSE Library, 5 Municipal Dr. 9 AM, Bam! Pow! Boom! Comic Book in a Day returns this January! This year we have exciting new features to allow artists of all ages to compete at their best and have the most fun! facebook.com

CHOCOLATE AT THE HEARTH

Conner Prairie, 13400 Allisonville Rd. 9 AM - 2 PM, In preparation for Valentine’s Day, join us at the hearth for a unique experience and learn how to prepare some delicious historic chocolate recipes. connerprairie.org

PUCKS 4 BUCKS 2025

Fishers Event Center, 11000 Stockdale St., 5:30 - 10 PM, Pucks 4 Bucks is an all-inclusive party and fundraiser. Enjoy unlimited food, beer and wine from a private bar while watching the game. eventbrite.com

PASTA MAKING SINGLES

SOCIAL, AGES 24-36

Angelo’s Italian Market, 11649 Maple St., #Suite 95, 7 - 9 PM, We’re partnering with Angelo’s Italian Market in Fishers to offer you a fun singles event! Learn the art of fresh pasta making with Angelo’s Pasta Making 101 class. eventbrite.com

2025 IWCI LAUNCH PARTY!

The District Tap, 3720 East 82nd St. 4 - 7 PM, Cocktail and hors d’oeuvres happy hour! eventbrite.com

INDY FUEL VS. GREENVILLE SWAMP RABBITS

Fishers Event Center, 11000 Stockdale St. 7 PM, You are invited to a total takedown at the Fishers Event Center as the Indy Fuel puts on Wrestling Night. It’s the battle of the Greenville Swamp Rabbits vs. the Indy Fuel! ticketmaster.com View All Local

Play. Move. Laugh.

IGNITING PASSION

INDY IGNITE GEARING UP FOR INAUGURAL SEASON

The growth of women’s sports worldwide is not just a cultural milestone. It’s big business.

According to FIFA, the 2023 Women’s World Cup final attracted 13.21 million viewers in the United Kingdom alone. Stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese have propelled the popularity of women’s basketball. In a historic moment for U.S. women’s sports, Nebraska’s Division I women’s volleyball team shattered the world attendance record when 92,003 fans filled Memorial Stadium.

Closer to home, Munciana Volleyball, based in Yorktown, stands as one of the most successful clubs in the country. Known for producing multiple national champions and elite athletes, the club boasts a track record of players and coaches at collegiate and professional levels. One of those standout players is Yorktown native Kylie Murr.

Writer / Renée Larr

Photographer / Michael Durr

A four-season star at Ohio State, Murr became the all-time digs leader with 1,935 before transferring to Minnesota for her final collegiate season. Her journey culminated with a professional draft to the Vegas Thrill, part of the emerging Pro Volleyball Federation (PVF).

The PVF, which launched its inaugural season in 2024, began with seven teams featuring 14 players each. The league adopted a major-league format, playing games in prominent arenas across the U.S. Among its recent expansions is the Indy Ignite, based in Fishers - a move championed by Co-owners Jim Schumacher and Don Hutchinson, and made possible by the unwavering support of the local community.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Indy Ignite to our brand-new Fishers Event Center and contribute to the growth and momentum of women’s sports in our region,” Fadness says. “Having a professional sports team call Fishers home is a testament to how far we’ve come as a vibrant destination for sports, dining and entertainment in the

Kylie Murr speaking with Olivia West on the court of the Fishers Event Center on Founders Day.

region. I’m proud that we can provide a venue to showcase the incredible talent and determination of these women, and help to pave the way to inspire the next generation of female athletes.”

Murr will return to her Hoosier roots as a libero for Indy Ignite. Liberos, often called the defensive anchors of volleyball, specialize in back-row play, particularly in receiving and digging the opponent’s attacks. At 5 feet, 6 inches, Murr’s stature might be smaller than some on the court, but her grit, fearlessness and agility make her a standout athlete.

Murr shares her perspective on the transition from college to professional volleyball. She notes that the physicality of the sport is a significant difference. “The girls who jump really high and hit the ball really hard are what people love to see when they’re watching volleyball,” Murr says. “I think the biggest difference between college and professional volleyball is just how physical all these women are on the team.”

Murr says she’s excited to be part of such a special team of female athletes. The team is a group of passionate, strong and independent women who hope to be role models to other young female athletes who love the sport of volleyball. Murr says Indy Ignite, with its unique blend of passion, strength and independence, has the advantage of being a newly formed team in the league, setting it apart from the rest.

“As an add-on team, we get to build this thing from the ground up and show everyone what Indiana volleyball is all about,” Murr says. “Everyone on the team has the same competitive mindset. We’re super focused and hard-working but also very lighthearted, making important connections with each other.”

For Murr, playing professional volleyball

in her home state feels like a dream come full circle. Raised on Indiana’s high school volleyball culture, she says it’s humbling to compete at a professional level close to family and friends. She’s happy for the team to be based in a suburb of Indianapolis, because in Fishers they can stand out from other professional sports.

“I’m so excited to be back home where I have friends and family support,” Murr says. “I think it’s so impressive to have

professional volleyball in Indiana. I think it’s important to consider your location when determining where to place a professional team. Here in Indiana, there is such a young crowd that loves and is dedicated to volleyball. I think it’s going to be cool to see these younger girls come out and watch us play.”

Murr says if you love volleyball and want to get better at it, you should come check out a live Indy Ignite game. She says experiencing the game firsthand is very different from seeing it on TV.

Pepper Indy Ignite Mascot

Sydney Hilley Setter

“As a pro volleyball player, we’re very open to connecting with the community’s crowd,” Murr says. “Seeing the girls in action and even meeting them changes your perception of the game. There are a lot of great athletes and role models, regardless of whether you like volleyball or not. Families can bring their kids and show them firsthand examples of what their future could look like.”

As the PVF and teams like Indy Ignite continue to expand, players like Murr are leading the way for women’s sports to reach unprecedented heights. Their success is a testament to the community’s vital role in supporting and nurturing the growth of women’s sports, proving that the future is bright globally and locally. This is a unique opportunity to be part of a significant movement in the world of sports.

The season, set to kick off on January 11 at the Fishers Event Center against the Orlando Valkyries, promises an exhilarating start. To secure your spot for the entire season or delve deeper into the team’s journey, visit provolleyball. com/teams/indy-ignite.