By Mike Chappell
mike.chappell@indystar.com
May 3, 2004
In at least one instance, the NFL stands for the No Fun League in the eyes of Mike Vanderjagt.
The veteran place-kicker described as "ridiculous" the league's decision to include the Indianapolis Colts' pre-kickoff "sway" in unsportsmanlike conduct that will be subject to a penalty and fine in 2004.
"We're not taunting the other team," Vanderjagt said after Sunday morning's minicamp practice at the Union Federal Football Center. "We're just trying to get our crowd excited.
"It was just to have some fun and enjoy the moment."
The league's competition committee determined the motivational routine fell under the unsportsmanlike/taunting umbrella. At home games, the Colts' kickoff unit was known to huddle up and sway rhythmically as the RCA Dome's public address system blasted out music. League officials have decided that is a choreographed, group demonstration -- which is subject to penalty.
If the Colts' kickoff team allows itself to be moved by the moment this season, it will receive a 15-yard penalty and Vanderjagt will kick from his own 15-yard line.
"There's nothing we can do about it," Vanderjagt said, "but it certainly wasn't taunting. That wasn't our intention at all."
Despite understanding his players' intent, coach Tony Dungy doesn't have a problem with the league's decision.
"I'm probably old school in that regard," he said, adding he's opposed to anything "that you feel could be directed at the other team."