It is our position that the Indianapolis Colts earning an AFC playoff berth is the feel-good story of the year. What started out as a season full of controversial player and management changes seemed all but doomed when new head coach Chuck Pagano was diagnosed with Leukemia early in the season. Immediately, fans put aside any animosity and Payton Manning withdrawal to channel their positive energy toward the healing of Coach Pagano. This ground-swelling effort took the form of the “Chuck Strong” campaign. The Colts organization led the way supporting blood drives, fundraisers and education efforts on Leukemia – complete with shaved heads in an empathetic sign of solidarity.
Offensive coordinator/interim coach Bruce Arians, a cancer survivor, boldly vowed to extend the season to allow the return of a healthy Coach Pagano. Thanks to the outstanding efforts of Coach Arians, an emotionally-charged team led by rookie quarterback Andrew Luck and a dedicated fan base, the promise was fulfilled. Not-to-be forgotten are the accomplishments of General Manager Ryan Grigson who seemingly hit all the right buttons at all the right times.
Among the dark clouds cast on 2012 by economic woes and national tragedies, thanks to the Indianapolis Colts, the game of football has warmed our hearts.