Indianapolis Colts training camp in Westfield is already underway, but it feels a little different this year. Sure, the team and fans are back out in the August heat in anticipation of what will hopefully be a successful season under head coach Shane Steichen.
But there is a noticeable absence on the sidelines. Beloved team owner Jim Irsay passed away in May at the age of 65. Irsay’s passing has left the team with a hole in its heart and a renewed sense of purpose and motivation.
“We have a lot to play for this year,” says wide receiver Alec Pierce, a fifth-year player. “We are extra motivated this year. I’ve never been in a playoff game.”
Colts fans will notice homages to Irsay immediately when they visit training camp. The week after Irsay’s passing, team officials announced plans to honor him with a special jersey patch during the 2025-2026 season.
Those patches will also be on the practice jerseys. “The patch is a visual reminder to everyone of his presence and legacy here in Indianapolis,” says Colts Vice President of Marketing Stephanie Pemberton. “Mr. Irsay loved coming to camp.”
Irsay could often be spotted on a golf cart, chatting with fans, coaches, players, and staff, just as enthused about the start of another season as everyone else.
Pemberton says Irsay’s love for the game was second only to that of his family. “He cared deeply about the horseshoe,” she says. “We want to recognize his community impact and the thousands of lives he touched.”
Irsay’s three daughters — Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson — are now at the helm of the team, with Irsay-Gordon serving as CEO, Foyt as executive vice president, and Jackson as chief brand officer and president of the Indianapolis Colts Foundation. All three share ownership duties.
“To say that we love our dad and miss him terribly would be an understatement,” Irsay-Gordon said. “We are so proud to continue our dad’s legacy, beginning with carrying out his foremost wish — to keep the Colts in our family.”
“We want our fans to know that we’ve spent decades in our family business learning every aspect of our organization under our dad’s leadership. It was sometimes trial by fire, and I’m forever grateful for the invaluable experience that I’ve gained. It has prepared me and my sisters for moments like today.”
All three will be at camp to help honor their father’s legacy ahead of the season.
Camping Guide
Training camp will be held through August 14 at Grand Park in Westfield. Pemberton says tickets can be reserved via the Colts’ website. The team is hosting 13 open practices, including seven primetime practices on select nights and weekends, giving fans even more chances to catch the team up close.
“We are one of the few teams in the league where training camp is open to fans for every practice,” said Pemberton. “We want fans to be part of the players’ journeys.”
Kids 17 and under can enjoy free entry to every practice, with open bleacher seating that offers great views of the action. Fans can also explore Colts City, an interactive fan zone featuring football drills, live performances by Colts Cheer and Blue, giveaways, and more. Plus, post-practice autographs are back! Select players will toss signed footballs into the crowd, creating memorable experiences for fans of all ages.
“The Colts will host a joint practice with Green Bay on Thursday, August 14, from 3 to 5 p.m. as a camp finale,” Pemberton says. “Primetime sessions start at just $5, and all ticket proceeds benefit USA Football, helping expand access to youth flag football right here in Indiana.”
The pop-up Pro Shop will also return so fans can stock up on the latest gear ahead of the 2025 regular season.
Yes, three-time NFL Mascot of the Year Blue will also be around. Pemberton says to keep your eyes peeled for flying pies. “Blue will throw a pie in your face if you ask,” she joked.
Top Tips
- Training camp will use the same clear bag policy as Lucas Oil Stadium.
- Parking is available all over the Grand Park campus and can be purchased in advance.
- Misting stations will be available at camp.
- Bring sunblock — training camp is during the hottest months of the year.
For Pierce, it’s another chance for the offense to gel as a unit. “The objective is to win the division,” he says. “Whatever we have to do to win.”
Honoring the Legacy
Jim Irsay will be inducted into the Colts Ring of Honor as part of the celebration of his life and legacy on Sunday, September 7, during week one of the NFL regular season.
“There was no bigger advocate for the Colts, the NFL, the city of Indianapolis, and the state of Indiana than our dad,” said Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Colts owner and CEO. “It’s only fitting that he now joins the other amazing Colts legends in our Ring of Honor who contributed so much to our franchise and our community over the past four decades.”
The Colts kick off the 2025 season against the Miami Dolphins at Lucas Oil Stadium at 1 p.m on September 7. The first preseason game will be against the Ravens in Baltimore on Thursday, August 7.
For the complete camp schedule, tickets, and more information, visit colts.com.
