Good Sports

by Budd Glassberg

Reprinted with permission from the Zionsville Times Sentinel on February 7, 2007

The Colts Deserved This One

“There are many paths to the top of the mountain, but the view is always the same.” - Chinese proverb

Climbing Mount Lincoln in the White Mountains of New Hampshire is a strenuous task that takes a great amount of effort. The path up the mountain is full of switchbacks following a mountain stream with several beautiful waterfalls. While climbing, it is difficult to determine how much more you have to go because the mountain is heavily wooded. It is only when you get to the top that you have any view at all of the distance you have climbed. The same could be said of the Indianapolis Colts rise to the top of the National Football league with its victory last Sunday over the Chicago Bears at the Super Bowl in Miami.

Since the arrival of Peyton Manning, the Colts have built one of the premier offenses in professional football. For the past several years, the Colts have played well, but fell short of expectations in the playoffs. Finally, they clawed their way to the big game this year. Then they reached the pinnacle of their sport by dominating every aspect of the game with the exception of special teams play. There is no doubt the better team won. While the opening kick gave those of us rooting for the Bears something to cheer about, the Colts were at the top of their game and would not be ruffled by a Bears early touchdown. The Colts were superior even playing on a wet field, which should have been an advantage to the Bears. They beat the Bears at their own game by winning the battle of turnovers and playing better defense. They were the better team running the ball. The duo of Addai and Rhodes made me forget that the Colts lost their star running back, the Edge, prior to the season. It makes me wonder if the Edge is now regretting leaving his former teammates and excellent organization for what seemed greener pastures (ala more money) in the Arizona desert. As expected, the Colt passing game was far superior to their opponent’s air game as it was done with the leagues best quarterback and receivers. All the while, the Colts played with the class that their coach radiates.

I watched the game appropriately surrounded by Colt supporters. As the only Bear fan in the room, I was sad to see my team outplayed. It was a minor miracle that the Bears entered the fourth quarter only five points down when the Colts had so totally dominated the game in yardage and time of possession. It was only when Bear quarterback Rex Grossman threw his second interception that was returned by the Colts for a touchdown that I realized that the Bears would not pull of a freak upset of the game. I was gracious in defeat as was my team.

Both of my daughters called me at the game’s conclusion, one attending a Super Bowl party north of Duluth, the other at Hanover College. Each was thrilled that her team had won. They were both excited. Having climbed Mount Lincoln on several occasions and having experienced my team winning the big one in 1986, I had some fatherly advice for them. I told them to enjoy the feelings of reaching the top. It is a time of pure joy. It is a time to take some time and enjoy the view from the top.

I wish to use this column to congratulate my friends and neighbors who are Colt fans. The first championship is always the best and most memorable. Enjoy the pinnacle as you have enjoyed the climb to get there. It is the ingrate who climbs the mountain only to look to the next one. Instead, savor the moment. You have earned it by sticking with your team through the tough times. Sunday’s Colt victory is certain to bring a new civic pride to our area, as well as respect from other football towns. Colt fans are known for being gracious and courteous. You deserve this championship.

Budd Glassberg is a resident of Zionsville who is active in the local running community. Visit www.runz.com for reprints of all his columns. You can reach him by email at budd@runz.com.