The Indianapolis Colts are honoring their late owner Jim Irsay with a season-long tribute centered around the theme of “Winning For Jim.” Head Coach Shane Steichen has spearheaded an initiative that will see a custom-designed guitar, emblazoned with the team’s logo and the mantra, presented to a player before each game throughout the 2025 NFL season. This symbolic gesture aims to keep Irsay’s spirit alive and inspire the team to perform at their best, according to Colts.com.
A Musical Tribute
The initiative was launched at the Indiana Farm Bureau Football Center on Labor Day 2025. Owner and CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon addressed the team, highlighting her father’s significant influence. Coach Steichen then unveiled the custom blue guitar, a surprise for the entire team. Each Saturday night, Steichen will present the guitar to a player of his choosing, who will then carry it into the stadium on game day. DeForest Buckner, a defensive tackle and team captain, was the first recipient of this honor, as reported by WTHR.com.
The selection of guitars as a tribute is deeply rooted in Jim Irsay’s personal passion. He was a well-known music aficionado and possessed an extensive collection of iconic guitars that adorned his office. Following Irsay’s passing in May 2025, Steichen sought a meaningful and lasting way to commemorate the former owner throughout the entire season. The “Win For Jim” mantra has become a rallying cry for the 2025 campaign, connecting the team to Irsay’s enduring spirit.
Crafting the “Win For Jim” Guitars
The custom guitars are the result of a collaborative effort led by Coach Steichen, who partnered with Dr. Mark French, a professor at the Purdue University Guitar Lab, on the design. Noah Scott, a Purdue alum, was responsible for building the guitars. Finishing touches, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and durability, were provided by Lafayette-based Freckles Graphics and Prime Auto Body, according to EssentiallySports.
These guitars are not merely decorative; they are fully functional instruments, strung and tuned, built to withstand the rigors of travel and symbolize the Colts’ resilience. The meticulous craftsmanship reflects the team’s aspiration to embody grit and staying power, qualities that defined Jim Irsay’s leadership.
Symbolism and Motivation
The presence of the “Win For Jim” guitar in the locker room and its journey with the team to every stadium is designed to serve as a constant reminder of Irsay’s profound influence. It reinforces the idea that his spirit remains with the team, motivating them to perform at their peak, even in his physical absence. This initiative goes beyond a simple gesture; it’s a powerful symbol of unity and dedication to Irsay’s legacy.
Additional Tributes to Jim Irsay
Beyond the guitar initiative, the Colts have incorporated other tributes to honor Jim Irsay’s memory. The team has added Irsay’s initials to a jersey patch, a subtle yet significant reminder of his presence. Furthermore, during halftime of the season opener, Irsay was posthumously inducted into the Ring of Honor, a testament to his lasting contributions to the Colts organization, as reported by SportSpyder.
These multifaceted tributes demonstrate the Colts’ commitment to preserving Irsay’s legacy and ensuring that his impact on the team and the city of Indianapolis is never forgotten. The “Win For Jim” campaign encapsulates the collective desire to honor his memory through dedicated performance and unwavering team spirit.
Impact on the 2025 Season
The “Win For Jim” campaign is expected to have a significant impact on the Colts’ 2025 season. By constantly reminding the players of Irsay’s legacy, the team hopes to foster a stronger sense of unity and purpose. The custom guitar, in particular, serves as a tangible symbol of Irsay’s passion and commitment to the Colts organization.
Furthermore, the involvement of local businesses and Purdue University in the creation of the guitars highlights the Colts’ connection to the Indianapolis community. This collaborative effort reinforces the idea that the “Win For Jim” campaign is not just about honoring Irsay, but also about celebrating the spirit of the city he loved.
Ultimately, the Indianapolis Colts’ tribute to Jim Irsay is a powerful and moving gesture that reflects the deep respect and affection the team had for their late owner. The “Win For Jim” campaign, with its central symbol of the custom guitar, is sure to inspire the Colts to perform at their best throughout the 2025 season, honoring Irsay’s legacy with every game.
