The AIA Sports Complex & Retreat Center is a ministry of Athletes in Action, international sports ministry focused on the spiritual development of athletes. Founded in 1966 as a division of Cru Ministries, Athletes in Action strives to see a Christ-follower of character on every team, in every sport, in every nation.
In order to better accomplish this vision, Athletes in Action moved their global headquarters to Xenia, Ohio in 2002. This 250-acre location (now called the “Athletes in Action Campus” ) had previously served as The Ohio Soldiers & Sailors Orphan Home dating back to the Civil War era.
The move gave Athletes in Action the opportunity to host groups from across the country and around the world through their Conference & Retreat Center.
In order to provide a central location to train their competitive traveling teams, Athletes in Action set out to construct one of the largest multi-sport synthetic turf projects in the United States. In 2006, Athletes in Action installed seven turf sports fields at the headquarters campus to better help those impacted by sport grow athletically, mentally and spiritually.
As of 2011, Athletes in Action added operation of a catering service; adding to the atmosphere of a central-location to host events.
Today, the Athletes in Action Sports Complex & Retreat Center comprises of the Sports Complex, Retreat Center, Catering Service, and Team Building Challenge Courses. It is able to host coaches and their teams for practices, games, tournaments, retreats, camps, team building and other special events.