Irsay foots bill for Colts staff to go to Super Bowl

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - The people behind the scenes at the Colts organization are headed to Miami. The all paid expense trip is courtesy of Colts owner Jim Irsay.

The group flew out of Indianapolis International Airport Thursday morning.

"Get out of here before the snow hits, huh," said Mike Prior, a former Indianapolis Colt who now works for the organization.

Irsay did the same thing the last time the Colts made it to the Super Bowl during the 2006 season. Many of the Colts employees have been part of the organization since the team moved to Indianapolis.

Sharon Hammer's husband is an Athletic Trainer for the team, "Ups and downs, 3 and 13 years and all the bad years. So it's great to be excited now."

It's a kind gesture of "thanks." People who work for the Colts are allowed to bring one person. Any added family members or friends are extra but still get to enjoy the same perks.

"You can't take anything like that for granted. My dad's coached a long time over 40 years at all different levels and so the first time around in 2007 was his first time in the Super Bowl. So you really got to take advantage when you get the chance," said Sam Murphy whose father is the linebackers coach.

He's taking his wife and 10-year-old Robin. She's a 4th grader at Pleasant View Elementary in Zionsville. She didn't get to go the last time the Colts were in the Super Bowl but this time her parents felt she's old enough to appreciate the significance.

"My teacher just announced it yesterday and so everybody was asking if I had an extra ticket," said Robin.

24-Hour News 8 learned a welcome reception is planned for this evening. There are some optional excursions the next two days.

Everyone will enjoy Sunday brunch, followed by the Super Bowl and if the Colts win there'll be a celebration party Sunday night.