Colts installing golf greens in front of training center

What’s with all the dirt and bulldozers at the 56th Street Colts complex on Indianapolis’ northwest side?

It’s the construction of a couple of putting greens.

Putting greens? What do those have to do with football?

The players need a place to relax during down time, of course. What better way to relax than working on your short game. The greens can also be used for youth clinics and other events, explained Colts Senior Vice President Pete Ward.

Naturally, quarterback Peyton Manning would like to see his teammates in the film room rather than on the putting green. Sources close to the team said Manning is concerned the putting greens could be a distraction to players. Luckily, there are no such distractions in Anderson where the Colts opened up training camp this week.

The putting greens are only part of the project. The work at the Colts training complex is part of an extensive ongoing plan to expand and improve the 25-year old facility.

The current phase includes landscaping improvements including expansion of retention ponds and drainage improvements. Previously, the Colts expanded and improved the football training areas, coaches’ and administrative offices, meeting rooms and other areas. In the near future the lobby will be renovated and expanded and possibly another expansion of the football area will be done.

The current earth work in front of the facility also will help with drainage at Eagle Creek Park across 56th Street and at the youth soccer facility next door to the west. There will also be landscape features that will enhance the facility's appearance. The current phase (including the golf greens) is set to be done in October.

“It will definitely look more attractive than it has in the last 25 years,” Ward said. “I think people passing by or visiting the complex will notice a pretty big difference.”