Photography Provided by the Indianapolis Colts
The Indianapolis Colts are back at it. While the games don’t count until the Houston Texans visit Lucas Oil Stadium on September 8 for the regular-season opener, hope for a run into the postseason is laid in the preseason at training camp. If the Colts are to improve on last year’s 9-8 record and take the next step into the playoffs, much of that groundwork will be set in motion during these practices at Grand Park in Westfield.
Grand Park, in its sixth year of being home to the Colts training camp, is scheduled to host a dozen practice sessions, wrapping up August 5 with a joint practice and scrimmage against the visiting Arizona Cardinals.
Training camp is full of opportunity, whether it is quarterback Anthony Richardson showing he’s healthy and sharp after last year’s season-ending surgery, or first-round draft pick Laiatu Latu giving indication the Colts were spot-on when making the UCLA pass rusher the first defensive player taken in the draft.
But one could argue training camp is as much about the fans as it is the team. The Colts organization recognizes the chance to connect with those buying jerseys, purchasing tickets and living on the edge of every third-and-one scenario.
“We are one of the few teams in the league where training camp is open to fans for every practice,” noted Stephanie Pemberton, Colts vice president of marketing. “It really does allow fans to be part of the players’ journey.”
The practice sessions at Grand Park provide fans their first glimpse of the team they’ll be cheering this season. For the armchair quarterback, it is an opportunity to absorb the detail and intricacies that go into each play. It’s easy to find your favorite player on the field and watch his every move. It is access a fan never gets once training camp concludes.
Of course, what happens on the field is critical for second-year Coach Shane Steichen and his staff, but it’s what happens off the field that makes training camp unique. When practice is over, most players are accessible. In the player interaction, you often see a personality and friendliness typically covered by pads and a helmet. Yes, NFL players are real people too! Fans have a chance to get close to the players who are usually only seen from the distance of a stadium’s upper deck, or the lens of a television camera – and training camp definitely provides the best chance for an autograph or a much-desired selfie with a favorite player.
Training camp provides something for all ages and levels of fandom. The kids can test their prowess at running, throwing and catching on a special field at Colts City. Even the big kids (yes that’s you, mom and dad) have fun on the turf showing the youngsters some of their old moves from the glory days.
“The expansiveness of Grand Park allows us to build out the fan experience to the fullest,” Pemberton said.
With the elevated heart rate from some fun exercise, and the sweat from a hot summer day, Colts City concessions are stocked and ready to hit the spot. After getting your thirst quenched and your belly full, you’ll want to check out the Pro Shop for the latest gear to make you look and feel like a true Blue fan. All purchases are cashless, so don’t forget your credit card.
While training camp is about the fun and games, there are some important details to note. It is possible for a training-camp session to be sold out, especially during weekend or evening practices. You must have a ticket to attend, and you get your ticket in advance. Tickets are not available via walk-up at Grand Park. Visit colts.com/camp to get your ticket for the day(s) you want to attend. Generally, tickets are free, but there are some exceptions. In a change from from previous years, five training-camp practices will have a $5 admission for adults 18 and over. The proceeds will benefit the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis flag football program. Tickets for kids 17 and under are always free.
Once you arrive for training camp at Grand Park, plenty of parking is available. You can purchase parking for $5 in advance, or $10 the day-of. ADA-accessible parking and seating are also available.
“Getting your tickets and parking early, and having them in your phone’s mobile wallet, allows us to expedite your entrance into the facility,” Pemberton added.
Keep in mind that a clear-bag policy is in effect at training camp, so do yourself a favor and arrive prepared.
It is always a good idea to check out colts.com/camp to make sure you are aware of the opportunities and requirements for your day at Colts training camp.
