Indianapolis, IN – May 25, 2025 — In a stunning and heartfelt gesture that has sent ripples through the football community, former Indianapolis Colts head coach and quarterback Frank Reich has announced a staggering $10 million donation to a local Indianapolis football program. The contribution, which Reich says is a tribute to the people and moments that shaped his football journey, marks one of the largest single private donations ever made to a grassroots football initiative in Indiana.
Reich, known for his resilience on the field and integrity off it, made the announcement during a special press conference at Lucas Oil Stadium Saturday morning. Flanked by former teammates, coaches, and local youth football leaders, Reich became visibly emotional as he reflected on his decades-long career and the role Indianapolis has played in his development both as a player and as a man.
“This is about legacy. It’s about gratitude. And it’s about giving back to a city and a game that gave me everything,” Reich said. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without the coaches who believed in me, the teammates who battled alongside me, and the countless young players who reminded me daily of why we love this sport. This donation is for all of them.”
Honoring the Past, Investing in the Future
Reich’s donation will go toward the Indianapolis Youth Football Alliance (IYFA), a comprehensive program that supports underserved youth, provides equipment and facilities, and funds coaching development throughout Marion County. According to IYFA officials, the funds will be used to renovate multiple practice fields, create a new indoor training complex, and expand scholarship programs for student-athletes.
“This is not just a gift; it’s a transformational investment,” said IYFA Director Marcus Taylor. “Frank’s generosity will impact thousands of kids—not just for a season, but for generations. He’s planting seeds for a brighter future for football in Indianapolis.”
The initiative will also include the creation of the Reich Leadership and Mentorship Center, a new facility designed to help student-athletes develop life skills beyond football, including financial literacy, mental health awareness, and academic support.
A Legacy of Faith and Fortitude
Frank Reich’s football career is one defined by perseverance. After starring at the University of Maryland, Reich was selected by the Buffalo Bills in the third round of the 1985 NFL Draft. Though he spent much of his playing career as a backup quarterback, he etched his name into football lore by leading the Bills to the largest comeback in NFL playoff history in 1993.
After retiring as a player, Reich transitioned into coaching, eventually serving as the offensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles during their Super Bowl LII victory in 2018. He was later named head coach of the Indianapolis Colts, where he led the team from 2018 to 2022.
While Reich’s coaching tenure in Indianapolis ended amid challenges, he has remained closely connected to the city through charity work and faith-based outreach. In his speech, Reich emphasized how critical Indianapolis had become to his personal and professional identity.
“There’s something special about this city—its people, its passion for football, its belief in second chances,” Reich said. “This isn’t goodbye. It’s a new beginning.”
Reactions from the Football World
News of the donation has sparked widespread praise from across the NFL community.
“Frank Reich has always been a class act. This donation is just another example of his heart and his vision,” said Hall of Fame coach Tony Dungy. “He’s not just investing in football—he’s investing in lives.”
Current Colts head coach Shane Steichen also offered his admiration. “Frank’s legacy in Indy just grew tenfold. What he’s doing for these kids is bigger than any game.”
Even NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell weighed in, calling the donation “a remarkable demonstration of leadership and service.”
Looking Ahead
With the $10 million donation already secured, construction on the new facilities is expected to begin later this year, with a projected completion date in mid-2026. Reich says he plans to stay involved as an advisor to the program, mentoring young players and working closely with coaches to ensure the vision becomes a reality.
“I’m not done with football,” Reich said with a smile. “I’m just playing a different position now—still leading, still serving, still believing.”
As the football world digests the magnitude of Reich’s gift, one thing is clear: this is more than a donation. It’s a powerful statement of purpose, and a reminder that the greatest legacies are not only built on the field—but in the hearts and futures of those who follow.