Sometimes the most memorable moments in sports don’t happen on the field. They happen on the sidelines, where human connection takes over and shows the real heart of the game.
That’s exactly what fans witnessed when Colts cheerleader Morgan McLain spotted a young boy in the crowd. She quickly realized he was deaf and instead of just waving or smiling, she began signing with him in American Sign Language.
A Sideline Gesture That Spoke Volumes
Morgan McLain wasn’t just doing her job as a cheerleader that day, she was making a little fan feel seen and included. The boy, dressed in his Colts gear and using a walker, was standing near the sideline when McLain approached him. After realizing he was deaf, she shifted seamlessly into ASL.
A small, wholesome conversation followed; she signed to ask him what his name was, and he signed back “Mark.” His mom then shared that they had just moved to the area, and this was his very first game. She also explained how excited Mark gets whenever he sees other people sign, which made the moment even more special.
The moment was short, but it spoke volumes. For the boy, it wasn’t just about a game. It was about belonging, about knowing that someone took the time to meet him where he was. And for everyone watching, it was a reminder that sports are about more than wins and losses.
Small gestures like this often stick with people longer than any final score. When a cheerleader uses ASL on the sidelines, it doesn’t just make one kid’s day, it highlights the importance of accessibility and empathy in sports spaces.
Fans React To The Viral Clip
The video, posted on Instagram, quickly drew thousands of likes and comments. Many called it the “most wholesome moment of the season,” and it’s easy to see why. In a world where negativity often dominates online spaces, this clip gave fans something pure to celebrate.
“When anyone tells you that Cheerleaders are only there to “look nice”, show them this video. So much respect for the inclusion of this little champ,” one fan wrote. Another simply said, “Such a special moment.”
Others jumped in with even more praise: “Give her a promotion,” one comment read, while another called it “A beautiful video. I was always fascinated when my kid took up sign language in school. It was just awesome watching her communicate with others. Proud mom moments.”
Some fans even felt inspired to learn themselves, with one writing, “This is the best ever and makes me want to learn ASL!” Another added, “The sweetest moment 💙💙 Forever cheering you on, Mark!” And one more summed it up perfectly: “Cheerleader of the year! 🔥”
It was also refreshing to see a cheerleader get this kind of spotlight. McLain showed that cheerleaders aren’t just performers but important ambassadors of the team, and her kindness is now part of the Colts’ story too.
It’s easy to get caught up in wins, losses, and playoff races, but sometimes the smallest sideline stories leave the biggest mark. Morgan McLain’s ASL signing reminded fans why they love sports, not just for football, but for connection, community, and making sure every fan feels included.
Published: Oct 9, 2025 04:19 pm