Play It Forward 2025: A Game-Changing Night for Wabash Valley Youth Athletics
On the evening of March 1, 2025, the Wabash Valley Athletic Association (WVAA) transformed the Terre Haute Convention Center into a vibrant hub of community spirit, friendly competition, and generosity. Jerseys and team colors filled the room as supporters from across the region gathered for the second annual Play It Forward: The Game Changer fundraiser — an event designed to strengthen the future of youth sports in the Wabash Valley.
An Evening Built on Purpose
The mission of Play It Forward is simple but powerful: raise the resources needed to ensure every young athlete has the chance to play, grow, and thrive, regardless of financial background. Proceeds from the evening help fund scholarships for student-athletes, provide equipment to under-resourced teams, and support developmental programs that promote education-based athletics (WTWO/WAWV coverage).
A Night of Games, Auctions, and Recognition
Guests were encouraged to arrive in their favorite jerseys or team colors, creating a fun, spirited atmosphere. The evening’s program featured:
Four interactive, friendly-competition games between teams of attendees
A plated dinner prepared by the Convention Center’s acclaimed catering team
A raffle and live auction filled with one-of-a-kind experiential packages
An awards ceremony recognizing standout athletes, coaches, and community contributors (Yahoo Sports)
The event drew participation from local leaders, community members, and even members of the 181st Intelligence Wing and personnel from the Terre Haute Regional Airport, who joined in to show their support (DVIDS News & Photos).
Powered by Local Support
The success of Play It Forward 2025 was fueled by the fantastic generosity of local sponsors, led by Union Health, the event’s Title Sponsor. Their commitment to the WVAA’s mission helped set the stage for a record-breaking evening of giving.
Other key sponsors whose support was instrumental included:
Hamilton Center
First Financial Bank
Epic Insurance
Dorsett Automotive
Pepsi Distribution
These organizations — along with many additional businesses and families — provided the financial foundation and in-kind contributions that made the evening possible. From underwriting event activities to donating raffle and auction items, their partnership demonstrated a deep commitment to youth sports in the Wabash Valley.
WVAA leadership also extended praise to the Terre Haute Convention Center for its exceptional professionalism and seamless event coordination, which helped the evening run flawlessly (Go Wabash Valley).
Building a Stronger Athletic Future
Play It Forward 2025 didn’t just raise money — it strengthened the community’s athletic pipeline, from youth leagues through high school sports. By breaking down financial barriers and ensuring equitable access to resources, WVAA is creating opportunities for the next generation of athletes to compete, learn, and succeed.
