INDIANAPOLIS — The man behind "Blue" is being recognized for his commitment to members of the military.
Trey Mock, who has performed as the popular Indianapolis Colts mascot for 19 seasons, is the team's nominee for this year's NFL Salute To Service Award. The award honors NFL players, coaches and staff members who "exhibit a year-round commitment to honor, empower and connect our service members, veterans and their families," the Colts wrote in announcing Mock's nomination.
According to the team, Mock has visited 33 military bases in Asia and Europe, along with visits to bases in Alaska and Hawaii, entertaining troops as "Blue," while also connecting with the servicemen and servicewomen through conversation.
Mock created a custom challenge coin featuring "Blue" that he gives to those members of the military he meets to honor their service. The Colts say he often keeps in touch with those veterans he meets to check in on them, even outside the scope of his role as the team's mascot.
He has also done work with the Gold Star Family, Blue Star Family, Folds of Honor and Flags of Valor organizations. Mock even helped organize a surprise baby shower for a couple that was expecting twins while the father served overseas.
Mock created "Blue" as the Colts' first mascot, starting with a sketch drawn at his mother's kitchen table in 2006. He was picked for the Mascot Hall of Fame alongside Indiana Pacers mascot "Boomer" in 2019.
Fans can vote for Mock and learn about the league's other Salute To Service Award nominees here.
