Indianapolis Colts: A new beginning

Michael Shepard

Reporter, 5 Rights News

The Indianapolis Colts hosted their second day of mini camp at Lucas Oil Stadium Wednesday and introduced fans to the revamped team including new quarterback Andrew Luck.

While seeing Luck for the first time was the big draw, the midday event also gave fans a chance to experience what it’s like to throw, kick and tackle like their favorite player.

About 7,500 optimistic fans, young and old, filled the stadium hopeful that this new Colts team would be better than last year’s 2-14 team. Still lingering, though, were the memories of former Colts quarterback Peyton Manning, now a Denver Bronco.

” (Andrew Luck) is really good but I really will miss Peyton Manning,” said Jessica Holton, who attended the public workout with her husband Tommy. But both said they were confident that Luck could be the quarterback the Colts need.

Following the two hours that fans had to buy tickets and explore the field, the real fun started with the  Colts taking the field.

The fans got a chance to see Luck up close and the defensive line entertained the crowd when they ran onto  the field yelling and hyping up the practice.

Veteran kicker Adam Vinatieri aimed kicks from the 40-yard line with pinpoint accuracy and 12-year veteran receiver Reggie Wayne ran routes and snagged passes from Luck, each to the delight of the crowd.

The concern was evident on the faces of some fans  when Luck threw several incomplete passes and missed some routes. However, he finished the day with 26-of-37 pass completions and a touchdown. The crowd went crazy.

The showcase practice ended with an autograph session. Among the most popular – Luck and Wayne.

Second year offensive lineman Ben Ijalana offered his perspective on Luck.  “He learned the playbooks really fast and has a grasp for the offense already.” He said that he is optimistic about his team’s future. “You can only get better after last season.”

Filed Under: Sports