Colts Cheerleader Connects with Deaf Fan Through Sign Language at His Inaugural Game

INDIANAPOLIS — A memorable experience unfolded for a young Indianapolis Colts fan as he attended his inaugural game, creating a heartfelt moment with his mother on the field.

Their encounter with a cheerleader quickly gained attention online, capturing hearts as they conversed in American Sign Language. The boy’s expression was priceless upon discovering that Colts cheerleader Morgan McLain could communicate with him through sign language.

Mark, who is deaf, is a student at the Indiana School for the Deaf. He and his mother were granted sideline passes for the game, anticipating a chance to meet some of the players. However, upon arriving at Lucas Oil Stadium, they were pleasantly surprised by an additional gesture of hospitality from the team.

“When they arrived, the team informed them, ‘Oh, we also have a cheerleader who will visit you, and she knows sign language,'” McLain explained. “From that point on, they were thrilled, and seeing Mark’s face light up when he realized I could sign with him was truly special.”

Then, Mark began signing back to her.

“Being able to communicate with individuals that maybe don’t necessarily have the opportunity to is really special,” McLain said. “Interacting with any fan on game day is always such a blessing, and this one is definitely one that will stick with me forever.”

McLain minored in ASL in college and learned how to sign from her professors who were deaf. She also practiced when she was growing up since her aunt was an ASL interpreter.

McLain shared their conversation was about Mark being excited for his first game and meeting the players. She also asked him who was on his Colts jersey — the NFL’s leading rusher, Jonathan Taylor.