The Rise of Major League Volleyball and Women's Sports in Indiana | Lauren Bertolacci and Ainise Havili, Indy Ignite

On today's show I learned the ins and outs of professional volleyball with Indy Ignite head coach Lauren Bertolacci and player Ainise Havili. The Ignite are one of eight Major League Volleyball teams and play their home matches at the Fishers Event Center.

We discuss the rapid growth of women's sports in Indiana, the establishment of Major League Volleyball, and the volleyball experiences of both Lauren and Ainise.

Lauren, an Australian-raised volleyball player turned coach, shares her journey through professional leagues in Europe before joining the Ignite.

Ainise, a setter with an impressive collegiate and professional background, talks about her transition from playing in Europe to being part of the Ignite.

Our conversation also covers the team's inaugural season, ambitions for the 2026 season, game day experience, and community engagement, plus the supportive sports culture in Indiana and possible expansions for Major League Volleyball.

If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast.

You are going to learn about: - The Incredible Growth of Women's Sports in Indiana - Major League Volleyball and Its Future - The Ignite's Runner-Up Campaign in 2025 and Goals for 2026

Thank you to our partners: Elements Financial Kelley School of Business

Check out these great clips from the show: 01:25 Guest Introduction: Lauren Bertolacci and Ainise Havili 02:33 Diving into Professional Volleyball 04:52 The Journey of Becoming a Professional Volleyball Player 09:33 The Rise of Major League Volleyball in America 21:34 The Inaugural Season of Indy Ignite 23:58 The Future of Women's Sports in Indiana 30:50 Mascots and Fan Engagement 31:02 2026 Season Expectations for Indy Ignite 31:44 Game Day Experience 33:13 Team Dynamics and Roster 34:01 Volleyball in Indiana 36:49 Advice for Aspiring Volleyball Players 38:28 Coaching and Playing 44:10 Living in Indiana 52:06 Favorite Indiana Activities and Places 55:03 Final Thoughts and Season Opener

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