In Dungy, church loses major member

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Tony Dungy was not just a head football coach, he was a member of the community. No where was that more apparent than the church where he and his family worshipped.

For four years, the North Side New Era Baptist Church in Indianapolis has been the Dungy family house of worship. Dungy was there on Sunday with his daughter.

"We noticed there was something different about him. Normally, we try to get him out so he isn't surrounded by everybody, but he wanted to linger," recalled New Era Baptist Church Pastor Clarence Moore.

Moore said having the Dungys as part of the congregation has been a boost for the church.

"We've always had a strong ministry, a vibrant ministry. What Tony's presence did, it created an opportunity for folk to kind of look in and see what is going on at that place," said Moore.

Moore said Dungy was a great example to the young men of the congregation and the young men of Indianapolis. The sentiment is echoed by people across the city.

"It's sad to see him go. He's done a lot of good both here in the city and as a coach for our team," said Butler student Pat Gibbs.

No matter what people say about his handling of the Colts, no one questioned Dungy's standing in the community.

"He was a great coach and it will be sad to see him go. But hopefully it will start a new chapter with the Colts for a great season next year," said Butler student

Moore believes Dungy's decision to leave is the right one.

"His family needs him most, so I have mixed feelings about it. I think the whole city does because we understand as a father what his calling is. Yet we enjoyed him immensely," said Moore.

Moore said what Coach Dungy seemed to like most about church was that, inside, he could be just another member of the congregation and never wanted or expected any kind of special treatment.

Moore said Dungy never asked the congregation to pray for a Colts win, but he said they did anyway.