The NFL and its 32 franchises rank among some of the most philanthropic and fan-involved organizations in all of sport. The Indianapolis Colts are no exception to this rule.
Earlier this month, Indy fans were treated to a unique experience that has become a tradition of sorts in Colts camp. Young fans of the popular Indianapolis franchise were treated to an on-field mini camp as well as an open house event at Lucas Oil Stadium. The event was sponsored in part by the Indiana Corn Marketing Council and Indiana Soybean Alliance.
This free event, open to the general public, featured an autograph session and a team practice. Another benefit offered to draw the Colts faithful to the event were the half-price concessions, free parking for the event, and fan appearances by the Colts cheerleaders and the team mascot—Blue. In lieu of an entry free, fans were encouraged to bring a school supply to donate to the Indy BackPack Attack, a program that provides school supplies for low-income youth in Central Indiana.
For the Indianapolis Youth, the eighth consecutive skills camp has been a great opportunity to learn the game from a current Colts player. Antoine Bethea, a defensive back for the team, was the featured athlete and served as the mentor for this free event for the second-straight year. A panel of 25 high school and college coaches helped Bethea teach the third through eighth grade participants.
“I’m excited to host this youth camp here in Indianapolis,” said Bethea. “There are so many young fans in the stands on gamedays with my jersey on, showing their support, so being a part of this free camp gives me a chance to give back to them.”
Both camps—the early morning and afternoon camp—were filled to capacity within hours of registration becoming available. The major focus of these camps is to emphasize the fundamentals of football, while also serving as an environment to teach important life skills.
“We are ecstatic to team up with Antoine Bethea this weekend for our Colts Skills Camp,” Youth Football Commissioner Mike Prior said. “It is exciting to know that Antoine will help the kids learn the fundamentals of football, but more importantly help young campers with character development.”
When the Colts created these events, they hoped to provide fans the opportunity to visit Lucas Oil Stadium, as well as the opportunity to watch a practice during an off-season period on the NFL calendar of events that is less eventful. A unique facet of the event is the Select-A-Seat program, which offers the chance to view the field in an attempt to sell the remaining 2013 season ticket seat options available.
The Indianapolis faithful continue to show out in large numbers for these events, and there is no indication that the events will slow down in future years. Photos from the event are posted below.
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