Colts cheerleader Morgan McLain, who studied American Sign Language (ASL) as a minor in college, learned the skill from her deaf professors.
INDIANAPOLIS — At his very first Indianapolis Colts game, a young fan experienced a heartwarming moment on the field with his mother.
Their interaction captured the internet’s attention as a cheerleader engaged the boy in a conversation using American Sign Language. The young fan’s delight was unmistakable when he discovered that Colts cheerleader Morgan McLain was able to communicate with him through signing.
Mark, who is deaf and attends the Indiana School for the Deaf, had the unique opportunity to enjoy sideline passes with his mom, and they anticipated meeting some of the players. When they arrived at Lucas Oil Stadium, they were pleasantly surprised by an additional gesture of hospitality from the team.
“When they arrived, they were informed, ‘Oh, we also have a cheerleader who will visit you, and she knows sign language,’” McLain recounted. “From that point, they were thrilled, and Mark’s face truly lit up when he realized I could sign with him.”
Mark responded by 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.
