A Unique Sports experience for Women athletes

A Bold Vision for Women's Sports

Interest in women's sports is surging. MARVELLA stands out as the nation's premier youth sports complex uniquely dedicated to women athletes. Located in Indiana, the birthplace of Title IX, MARVELLA offers a comprehensive solution to the underserved market of women's sports.

Why “Marvella”?

Title IX, the landmark legislation that brought about equality for women in sports, was enacted in 1972 with the crucial support of former U.S. Senator Birch Bayh from Indiana.

Senator Bayh famously credited his inspiration to his wife, Marvella, which means "marvelous", "a miracle to marvel at", and "wonderful and extraordinary".

Although she was a skilled orator, elected governor of the American Legion Auxiliary Oklahoma Girls State program, and highly intelligent, Marvella Bayh was denied admission to the University of Virginia in 1951 solely based on her gender. Her experience cemented Senator Bayh's empathy for women's rights and served as his inspiration to champion the Title IX legislation in 1972.

We wanted to honor Marvella Bayh, as well as the intent of Title IX, with a sports campus that will be a miracle to marvel at, wonderful and extraordinary. Marvella - just marvelous!

Specially Designed For Young Women Athletes

More than just a sports complex, MARVELLA is a groundbreaking destination designed specifically for female athletes. Our unique approach combines top-tier athletic training with educational programs and a family-friendly environment.

Unparalleled Facilities and Programs

At MARVELLA, you'll find state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor courts and fields for basketball, volleyball, soccer, lacrosse, and flag football, with even more sports to be added in the future. Our year-round tournaments, camps, clinics, and workshops cater to athletes of all levels. But we go beyond sports. MARVELLA is committed to holistic development, offering educational programs in leadership, character, mental health, and wellness. We believe in educating girls for both sports…and life.

A Family-Friendly Destination

Located at the renowned Fair Oaks Farms family resort in Newton County, Indiana (between Indianapolis and Chicago on I-65), MARVELLA offers a truly unique experience for athletes and their families.

Join the MARVELLA Revolution

Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting out, MARVELLA is the place to be.

A Complete Sports Experience

MARVELLA is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive community where young women athletes of diverse backgrounds can thrive. We provide a safe space for them to cultivate their athletic abilities, develop essential leadership skills, and nurture their mental well-being. Our programs are designed to empower these young women to become confident, resilient, and well-rounded individuals who can excel both on and off the field and court.

TOURNAMENTS

Test your skills against top athletes in high-caliber events, pushing your athletic boundaries in a supportive environment.
SKILL DEVELOPMENT

Hone your technique with expert coaches, mastering new skills and refining existing ones to reach your full potential.
ATHLETIC TRAINING

Optimize your physical performance through personalized training programs, designed to enhance strength, endurance, and recovery.
LEADERSHIP SKILLS

Develop the confidence and skills to lead effectively, empowering yourself and inspiring others both on and off the field.
NUTRITION

Learn about the science of fueling your body for optimal performance, receiving personalized guidance to optimize your diet.
MENTAL HEALTH

Build mental resilience and emotional intelligence through workshops and support groups, fostering a healthy mindset for athletic success.

70 miles from Chicago, IL, and 100 miles north of Indianapolis, IN, with direct access from major airports
On the property of Fair Oaks Farms encompassing more than 20,000 acres fronting I-65
Potential for ancillary lodging and business development in Newton County and adjacent Jasper County

Located in Newton County, Indiana

The Marvella Girls Sports and Leadership Experience will be located on the nationally recognized Fair Oaks Farms campus in northwest Indiana, which already attracts 700,000 visitors annually.

Fair Oaks Farms offers a unique blend of agricultural experiences, education, entertainment, and delicious food. This includes a Barn Hotel, Farm Museums, Birthing Center, Tours, Field Trips, Family Fun, on-site restaurants, a Farm to Table Restaurant, Swimming, Outdoor concerts, Orchards, and Nature Trails.

Marvella will cater to an additional 400,000 female athletes annually. The collaborative efforts of Marvella and Fair Oaks Farms are set to establish an extraordinary destination campus.

Marvella is a Game Changer

TAMIKA CATCHINGS

"Marvella will be a space that will allow young women to come to fulfill their dreams and goals - to have a magical place to play their sport. They will come together with female athletes from all over the U.S., and eventually all over the world, to experience what we are about to have. Unbelievable!”
DIGIT MURPHY

"In the last five years, women's sports has just catapulted to another level. Title IX has done such a great thing to accentuate resources, and when women have resources they can learn and grow in the same way that men can. And when women actually use those resources, their skills are off the charts. The sky's the limit!”
JULIE RAGSDALE

“It's about life experience and life skills. It’ll be fun and interactive. Young women athletes will find they're learning life skills related to resilience and mental health, fitness, nutrition, education, leadership, and character development.”
ALLISON BARBER

Marvella is more than just a sports complex; it’s a powerful statement about equity and opportunity. We are creating a space where female athletes can thrive and be inspired, not only through competition but also through leadership and wellness programs that empower them to achieve their fullest potential.
SUZY KOLBER

"Promoting team sports for girls has always been my passion! Few things are as empowering for girls- while teaching leadership, accountability, and skills for success. Marvella provides the perfect place for girls to experience best in class coaching, and facilities- with an eye on mental health and wellness.”