I really do not know much about Chuck Pagano. After all, he is new to the Indianapolis Colts and for that matter, new to the fraternity of NFL head coaches.
Sure we know his resume, but before we could really get a read on this brave man, he was diagnosed with leukemia, and forced to take a leave of absence to fight it with treatment. On the other hand, in these past two months, we have learned all we will ever need to know about Pagano as he forges ahead with his life and periodically visits his team at practice and at their games as he did this past Sunday against Buffalo.
Sure, it is easy to subscribe to the “win one for the coach” philosophy as the human spirit naturally is inspired when it is reminded of the trials and tribulations related to one’s failing health.
But Pagano’s story goes far beyond that, as here is a man who finally gets an opportunity to lead at the highest level of the sport he loves, and it all gets derailed unexpectedly by a cruel diagnosis. His players have adopted the setback as a rallying point to excel on the field in a tribute that is both timely and fitting. They have raised money but more importantly, awareness to help encourage others to get involved in the quest to defeat this disease.
Through it all they have found the ability to win some football games and provide the diversion that is so sorely needed in a time like this, and whether their unexpected quest for the playoffs comes to fruition or not, they too have taken his bravado on to the field each weekend and achieved more than their collective talents probably should allow them to.
Pagano modestly continues to deflect all the credit to the players and as he stood outside the suite in which he was watching his team from this past Sunday, it was obvious that he was moved by everything that is transpiring. He continues to express his gratitude to all through the press, but in reality we all should be thanking him for the constant lessons of courage, dignity, and perseverance that he is instilling in us all.
Notes: Reggie Wayne moved into 11th place on the NFL all time receptions list by virtue of a eight-catch, 102-yard performance. Rookie T.Y. Hilton became the first player in Colts history to catch a pass for a touchdown and return a punt for a touchdown in the same game.
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Two members of the Colts cheerleading squad allowed their flowing locks to be shaved during the third quarter as apart of a fundraising drive to benefit leukemia treatment and research. The effort raised more than $27,000.
You can show support for coach Pagano and also help raise money for leukemia research by purchasing a special commemorative shirt at Chuckstrong.org.
Danny Bridges, who feels the Colts cheerleaders still look divine with their new haircuts, can be reached at (317) 578-1780 or at Bridgeshd@aol.com.
