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Autistic hoops manager working for Colts?

Tuesday, August 01, 2006

Jason McElwan — the Athena, N.Y., high school basketball manager who came to national prominence last spring after scoring 20 points in the final four minutes of his team’s final home game — is helping the Colts’ equipment staff at training camp this week, according to the TRIBUNE STAR.

McElwan, who is autistic, captured the nation’s attention with his once-in-a-lifetime performance, which has allowed the personable young man to run in some pretty impressive company. He recently spent time with President George W. Bush.

He spent part of Monday’s morning practice with the Colts’ offense, playing catch with receiver Marvin Harrison and having a conversation with receiver Brandon Stokley.

“J-Mac is a real interesting situation,” Tony Dungy said. “He’s here, really, to do the same job he did in [high] school. He wants to come here and work a week, work in our equipment room. He’s done a great job so far. We’re happy to have him. He’s a very good worker and a very good sports fan.”

And his reason for deciding to work with the Colts? “He wanted to get some football experience and felt we were a good team to come to. So we’re happy to have him,” the Colts’ coach said.