Page 22 - 2015 IHSAA Annual Report

SECTION FIVE 2014-15: A YEAR IN REVIEW

There are dozens of intense rivalries in Indiana, including
this one in Madison County between Lapel and Frankton.
As hard fought as their games may be, these two arch-
rivals put their competitive spirit aside and stand
shoulder to shoulder when it’s time to honor America.

For example, on every autumn Friday night,
approximately 160 football games are played in
communities across the state of Indiana. Thou-
sands of enthusiastic fans attend every game. And
while the goal is for no incidents of bad behavior
to occur, it is evident that an overwhelming
majority of players, coaches and fans practice
good sportsmanship on a routine basis.

The Popularity of High
School Sports in Indiana

More than 1,300,000 fans attended IHSAA
state tournament events in 2014-15, despite
inclement weather during regional weekends
in sports that have the broadest and most
enthusiastic fan base, football and boys
basketball. Weather considerations aside,
football, girls swimming, wrestling, girls
basketball and softball all recorded increased
attendance at the state championship level.
Because high school sports are entertaining,

20 INDIANA HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION ANNUAL REPORT 2015