Colts still see value in taking camp on the road

Jul 24, 2014; Anderson, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts offensive tackle Anthony Castonzo (74) goes through blocking drills during training camp at Anderson University. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

This week, the Colts will open up training camp at Anderson University, about an hour outside of Indianapolis, as one of a shrinking number of teams who still hit the road for camp.

As IndySportsCentral.com's Mike Chappell notes, just 12 of the NFL's 32 teams, are holding camp away from team headquarters this year. That's a steep drop from 2000, when 26 of the league's clubs held their camps on college campuses.

For the Colts, the decision to continue training in Anderson is as much about logistics as it is about team-building and eliminating distractions.

Pete Ward, the Colts' chief operating officer, said training in Indianapolis would limit fan access, as the team headquarters offers limited seating and parking. Practicing in Anderson, Ward said, allows fans an up-close experience they wouldn't get in Indianapolis.

"We look at it as a great marketing tool, a great hands-on opportunity for our fans,'' Ward said, via Chappell. "It's just a great time to interact with your fan base.

"We're really happy with Anderson. The people up there are wonderful and we're treated like VIPs. But it's also great to have the fans there to interact with the team.''

The Colts report to camp Aug. 1 and begin practice a day later. Camp runs through Aug. 14.

(h/t IndySportCentral)