[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 24 (Thursday, February 8, 2007)]
[Senate]
[Page S1777]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      HONORING INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

  Mr. BAYH. Mr. President, today I pay tribute to the Super Bowl 
Champions from my home State of Indiana, the Indianapolis Colts. The 
Colts' 29-17 historic win over the Chicago Bears in Super Bowl XLI was 
the first professional football championship for the State of Indiana 
and a proud moment for our State and country.
  As Tony Dungy hoisted the Lombardi Trophy high into the rainy Miami 
night, the first African American coach to do so, I was reminded of 
what people used to say about the great Joe Louis: ``He is a testament 
to his race, the human race.'' This was a great moment for African 
Americans but one that we all should take pride in. Tony Dungy, Peyton 
Manning, Jim Irsay, and the entire Colts team and organization are a 
testament to what professional athletes should be, and they should be 
commended for winning with class, courage, and character.
  It is rare in today's sports world that an organization carries 
itself with such character and class, on and off the field. Throughout 
the year, the Colts battled week after week, fighting uphill, and never 
buckling under the pressure.
  Once the playoffs started, the Colts' true character shined even 
brighter. They never lost faith in themselves and prevailed as a team. 
Their conduct this season should be an example for all other teams, not 
an exception.
  I will never forget sitting with my two young boys cheering as our 
team won the Super Bowl, but it was just as important that they got to 
see professional athletes carry themselves with such integrity. I 
congratulate the Indianapolis Colts on their Super Bowl victory and for 
the example they set for my children and the millions of others who I 
hope are inspired by their example.

                          ____________________