Colts Head Coach Speaks to Football Team
10.23.2009
Taylor University head football coach Ron Korfmacher welcomed Indianapolis Colts head coach Jim Caldwell to the Upland campus Friday afternoon as the featured speaker for Taylor's weekly football chapel.
"This is a tremendous atmosphere," Caldwell said of Taylor, "an uncommon atmosphere, and it's a unique bunch of guys who go to school here and play here."
The former quarterbacks coach had addressed Taylor football teams in the past, but this was the first time as the head coach of an NFL franchise. He spoke to the group of over 75 players and coaches on the importance of staying humble and focused during prosperous times.
Caldwell, who has led the Colts to a 5-0 record in his first season on the job, admitted he was talking as much to himself as he was the Trojans, who are off to their best start (3-3) since the 1999 season.
Korfmacher and Caldwell first crossed paths over 25 years ago when Caldwell was an assistant coach under Bill McCartney at Colorado, and Korfmacher was pursuing a graduate assistant position. Caldwell showed an interest in Korfmacher, taking time to talk about the profession.
"It's a privilege to introduce Jim to the team," Korfmacher said, "and likewise to introduce the team to him because I know he cares or he wouldn't be here. He's a guy of good character. He just makes time for you."
The two coaches have maintained a connection over the years, with Caldwell coming to speak to the team on two prior occasions. When invited to come back this time, Caldwell said he didn't hesitate.
"You may ask why I came up here. My time is tight. My demands are greater. I used to come here before I was a head coach so why not now? I love seeing you young men and how you worship God. We have to carve out time for each other."
The group of Taylor players sat mesmerized during Caldwell's 30-minute talk. The coach then took questions from the players, with topics ranging from the Super Bowl to the responsibilities of being a Christian athlete to Peyton Manning's work ethic.
Senior defensive back Brandon Mitchell was among those impressed with Caldwell. "You think of him as a big figure, but he showed a humble spirit taking the time to come up here and talk. You might think he would have an urgency to leave, but he answered questions until we were finished asking. It exceeded my expectations."
Carving out time yet again, Caldwell remained in the auditorium following the chapel service to interact with the players and coaching staff.
"[Christian athletes] don't fellowship enough," Caldwell said. "That's what's so unique about this place. You are like-minded. Your goals are the same. You believe in the same things. We all need someone who will challenge us."