Throughout my time both watching and writing about the Colts over the years, I have seen some pretty emotional stuff both on and off the field for this team. Super Bowl wins, Super Bowl loses, victories, losses, injuries and recoveries. Failure and redemption and just pure human spirit from these men who put their bodies and minds in harms way weekly, for our entertainment and enjoyment. I had the privilege this past weekend to witness another one of those that just oozed emotion from every angle.
I had the rare opportunity, on an exceedingly warm October afternoon in Nashville Tennessee to gain access to the closed Colts locker room after their victory over the Titans. This game was a roller coaster of emotions for both the players and the fans. The locker room after the game wasn’t any different. Some would say the Horseshoe left it all out on the field, but I can say firsthand, their emotions were flowing in that locker room.
After the initial celebration settled down, the one and only Jim Irsay entered the locker room and the players, coaches and staff all roared again at his appearance. Coach Steichen and Mr. Irsay had a short discussion and then waived Skippy the intern over with the official game ball from the Colts hard fought victory. Skippy gave the ball to Mr. Irsay and he went into his presentation speech. “For years with the Colts we’ve been saying next man up. At different times and different places, different men in all different positions have stepped up when the team needed them. After today’s game, it’s obvious who made the biggest contribution to the Horseshoe’s victory today. That’s why today’s game ball goes to Kent Payne and his entire officiating crew! Without their help today, we would have most assuredly shat the bed in Nashville. So here’s to you and your whole crew!”
I’m sure you remember the emotional locker room speech when Mr. Irsay led everyone in a rousing version of Queen’s “We Will Rock You.” Well, he didn’t disappoint Sunday either. He gathered everyone around him and asked them to join him in a salute to that brave officiating crew. I have to admit it was the most original and emotional version of Starland Vocal Band’s “Afternoon Delight” I have heard in my entire life.
That is the Forged Truth from the Meanie
@BluemeanieColts
