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Beloit’s Caldwell eyes NFL title as Colts’ coach

Indianapolis Colts head coach Jim Caldwell, a Beloit native, responds to a question during a news conference in Indianapolis, Friday, Jan. 29, 2010. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy).

BELOIT -- When Indianapolis Colts head coach Jim Caldwell took hold of the Lamar Hunt trophy, signaling the team’s AFC Championship victory Jan. 24, the excitement reverberated back to his hometown of Beloit.

“It’s always nice to have (Beloit’s) name out there, and always a pleasure to congratulate (former) residents that have been successful, and in this case, literally at the peak of their chosen profession,” said Larry Arft, Beloit’s city manager.

John Heineke, Caldwell’s football coach at Beloit Memorial High School, has followed his former player’s career closely.

“With five daughters, many of my former players were like sons to me, and of course, whenever something like this happens, you’re extremely proud of them,” Heineke said. “It’s an accomplishment he’s worked hard for, and we’re just hoping he can go all the way.”

Heineke is sure most Beloiters had the same reaction when the CBS cameras focused on Caldwell at the end of the AFC title game.

“They finally saw him smile,” Heineke said.

The Colts will play the New Orleans Saints in the Super Bowl XLIV NFL football game on, Sunday, Feb. 7, in Miami.

Read the full story in the Jan. 31, 2010 e-edition of Walworth County Sunday, PAGE 18A.

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