Anyone catch Tom Van Riper’s column in Forbes about the worst cities to be a sports fan? He ranks Indianapolis as the #3 worst city (Miami finished first -or last depending on how you look at it). The formula used to determine the rankings included average winning % of the pro teams, cost for a family of four, and median income.

Okay, if that’s your measure of the worst city in which to be a fan, then fine Indy is third worst. However, I would argue Tom is not a Sports fan. Nope, not even close. I capitalized sports for a reason. Tom is a little “s” sports fan. He confined himself to the 4 major sports at the top level. If you are a Sports fan (and I know most of the Citizens are) then you’re into watching all kinds of sports. And, you can appreciate minor league and amateur sports as well.

So, our very own COC rankings of the BEST CITY in America to be a SPORTS fan has concluded that Indianapolis is #1! Our rankings are based on one sole criteria: Options! I challenge you to find one other city in America that has as many options as Indy.

We have professional baseball, basketball, and football. Sure the Indians are only AAA, but they are the oldest team in the minor leagues and are second only to the Yankees in championships by a professional franchise. We also have minor league hockey, women’s football, roller derby, a thriving adult baseball community, and even throwback baseball at Conner Prairie.

Are you in to auto racing? This place is heaven. We have the Indy 500 and the Allstate Brickyard.  Indianapolis Motor Speedway, O’Reilly Raceway Park, the Speedrome, the Veladrome (bicycle racing).

Like to run? Indy has 3 half marathons during the year and countless 5K and 10k races.

We have the best facilities in all of sports: Victory Field was voted 3 time best ballpark in the minor leagues. The players voted Conseco Fieldhouse the best arena in the NBA. And Lucas Oil Statdium just opened for business.  And don’t forget Hinkle Fieldhouse, home of the Butler Bulldogs. Dick Vitale rated it in the top 5 venues to see a basketball game.

Speaking of amateur sports, we have the Final 4 every 4-5 years, the Big 10 Tournament (men’s and women’s). At least once a year, IU, Purdue, and Notre Dame play in Indy. We have hosted national swimming and diving championships, volleyball championships, Pan Am games, World Basketball Championships. Starting in 2011, at least 1 round of the men’s and or women’s NCAA basketball tournament will be played in Indy until 2039.

Add all that up, and I would say it’s hard to find a city with more options for Sports fans. Let me know what you think?

Carry on, Citizens!