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Which Indiana schools are best for athletes? According to one study, these are the top 25
TL;DR
A recent study identifies the top 25 high schools in Indiana for athletes, highlighting the state's rich sports culture and legacy. Indiana continues to produce nationally recognized athletic talent.
Key points
- Indiana has a rich sports culture.
- The state has produced legendary athletes.
- A study ranks the top 25 high schools for athletes.
- Indiana high schools continue to achieve national recognition.
Whether it be at Indianapolis Motor Speedway or the dozens of high school basketball gyms that can’t be found anywhere else, sports culture runs deep in Indiana.
Along with that distinction, plenty of legends have come out of the state—like Judy Warren, John Wooden, Larry Bird and Oscar Robertson, to name a few—with Indiana high schools setting the stage for epic moments on fields, courts, pools, and more.
The trend continues today, with high school athletics achieving national recognition.
More: Which Alabama high schools are best for athletes?
Which schools in the Hoosier State are considered the best for athletes in 2026?
According to one study conducted by Niche, which accounts for survey feedback from students and parents—accounting for "reviews of athletics, number of state championships, student participation in athletics, and the number of sports offered at the school"—and data from the U.S. Department of Education, these are the top 25.
Guerin Catholic High School players celebrate after winning an IHSAA class 2A boys soccer State Championship match against Indianapolis Bishop Chatard High School, Friday, Oct. 31, 2025, at IU Indianapolis Michael A. Carroll Track and Soccer Stadium.
25. St. Theodore Guerin High School (Noblesville)
- Total number of sports: 24
24. Brownsburg High School
- Total number of sports: 20
23. Warren Central High School (Indianapolis)
- Total number of sports: 20
22. Barr-Reeve Middle/High School
- Total number of sports: 12
21. West Lafayette Junior/Senior High School
- Total number of sports: 18
20. Saint Joseph High School (South Bend)
- Total number of sports: 22
19. Penn High School (Mishawaka)
- Total number of sports: 22
18. Crown Point High School
- Total number of sports: 24
17. East Central High School (St. Leon)
- Total number of sports: 21
16. Ben Davis High School (Indianapolis)
- Total number of sports: 22
15. Mater Dei High School (Evansville)
- Total number of sports: 19
14. Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School (Indianapolis)
- Total number of sports: 29
13. Central Catholic Junior/Senior High School (Lafayette)
- Total number of sports: 20
12. Carmel High School
- Total number of sports: 21
11. Bishop Dwenger High School (Fort Wayne)
- Total number of sports: 24
10. Hamilton Southeastern High School (Fishers)
- Total number of sports: 23
The Hamilton Southeastern Royals celebrate Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026, after winning a sectional quarterfinals matchup at Carmel High School. The Hamilton Southeastern Royals defeated the Westfield Shamrocks, 60-46.
9. Blackhawk Christian School (Fort Wayne)
- Total number of sports: 16
8. Lutheran High School of Indianapolis
- Total number of sports: 19
7. Andrean High School (Merrillville)
- Total number of sports: 19
6. Center Grove High School (Greenwood)
- Total number of sports: 23
5. Roncalli High School (Indianapolis)
- Total number of sports: 24
4. Culver Academies
- Total number of sports: 33
3. Bishop Chatard High School (Indianapolis)
- Total number of sports: 28
2. Reitz Memorial High School (Evansville)
- Total number of sports: 23
1. Cathedral High School (Indianapolis)
- Total number of sports: 27
Cathedral Fighting Irish midfielder Dixon Hornsby (10) talks to teammates on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, during the game at Cathedral High School in Indianapolis.
Data via Niche survey statistics
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY Sports: Indiana's best high schools for athletes revealed for 2026
Q&A
What are the top 25 high schools for athletes in Indiana?
The study lists the top 25 high schools in Indiana recognized for their athletic programs, showcasing schools that excel in various sports.
Why is Indiana known for its sports culture?
Indiana has a deep-rooted sports culture, famous for legendary athletes and iconic venues like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and numerous high school basketball gyms.
Who are some legendary athletes from Indiana?
Notable athletes from Indiana include Judy Warren, John Wooden, Larry Bird, and Oscar Robertson, who have all made significant contributions to sports.
How do Indiana high schools achieve national recognition in athletics?
Indiana high schools gain national recognition through strong athletic programs, talented athletes, and a history of success in various sports.
