Indianapolis families gathered on Friday afternoon at Gainbridge Fieldhouse for a lively basketball clinic organized by GirlDads Care in partnership with the Indiana Fever. The two‑hour event offered dads and their daughters a rare chance to practice drills, work on skills, and enjoy direct court time before the Fever’s game against the Connecticut Sun.
Filling a Gap for Fathers and Daughters
GirlDads Care was founded nearly four years ago by Indianapolis resident Will Mosley after he recognized a shortage of year‑round activities that bring fathers and daughters together. “When my daughter was born, the only events I found were Father’s Day weekend, daddy‑daughter dances, and take‑your‑daughter‑to‑work day,” Mosley explained. “We wanted an opportunity where dads can say, ‘We can’t do the push‑ups for you, but we can do them alongside you.’ Just being there gives so much encouragement.”
The clinic was coordinated through the Indiana Fever’s “Court of Dreams” program. Group Event Specialist Lauryn Kalkowski worked closely with Mosley to design an experience that aligns with the nonprofit’s mission of active mentorship.
Local Families Take the Court
For many participants, the chance to run drills on a professional WNBA floor was a welcome break from daily routines. “I heard about this on the morning news,” said Justin Pompey, a Fever season‑ticket holder who pulled his eight‑ and nine‑year‑old daughters out of school early to attend. “It makes it so easy to go and sign up and have something for us to do, just the three of us.”
Moms in attendance also praised the event’s impact. “With everybody being busy, always working, it is really nice to be able to take some time off and be here with her, doing things that she loves,” said Maggie Chino, whose 11‑year‑old daughter participated alongside her father.
Support From Community Partners
The clinic was made possible by a coalition of partners, including NBA 2K, New Era, Catch the Stars Foundation, Jr. WNBA, and Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis. Their support underscores a growing recognition that women’s sports and family‑focused programming can thrive together.
GirlDads Care plans to expand dad‑daughter sports activations nationwide, building on the momentum generated in Indianapolis. By providing structured, fun, and faith‑affirming environments, the organization hopes to nurture strong family bonds and encourage the next generation of female athletes.
Looking Ahead
After the clinic, the Indiana Fever took the court for their matchup against the Connecticut Sun, a game that highlighted the growing popularity of women’s basketball in the state. The success of the GirlDads Care event demonstrates how community‑driven initiatives can complement professional sports, offering families meaningful experiences that reinforce traditional family values and the importance of active, healthy lifestyles.
Original reporting: 93.1 WIBC (Indianapolis) — read the source article.
