When Indianapolis Colts offensive lineman Danny Pinter started wearing custom cleats for the NFL’s “My Cause, My Cleats” initiative, he had a clear goal in mind — to honor the fallen heroes of the fire service.
Each year, during Weeks 13 and 14 of the season, NFL players wear personalized cleats to raise awareness for meaningful causes, and since its launch in 2016, the campaign has given players and staff an opportunity to highlight the organizations they support.
This year, more than 60 Colts players and staff, including Danny, took part in the initiative.
Local 4416’s Matt Pinter says the inspiration for the cleats sparked from a conversation with his brother.
“It started during his rookie year when he reached out to me about doing something for the fire service with his cleats. We came up with the idea to locally sponsor someone who had passed away in the line of duty in the past year or a few years prior. At that time, it was Local 4416 President Tony Murray who helped me with a few names,” said Matt.
It’s really special for me to see Danny using his platform to support the fire service.
Local 4416 fire fighter Matt Pinter
Matt says his brother has picked a local fire fighter’s name to include over the past few years.
“This year, he picked a fire fighter who was on my volunteer department, Josh Reed,” said Matt. “He passed away from cancer this past year. So, he put Josh’s name on the front of his cleats. It’s really special for me to see Danny using his platform to support the fire service.”
Local 4416 Communications Director Erik Scheub spoke about the Pinter brothers and their dedication to the cause and the fire service.
“Matt is one of those guys who is good at everything,” said Scheub. “He’s one of those fire fighters you can trust to show up every day and help others get better at the job.” He added, “To have Danny take part, highlighting those members that have lost their lives in the line of duty, is important. Outside of our Indiana Fallen Fire Fighters Annual Remembrance Ceremony, it really highlights the importance.”
To learn more about the initiative, visit the link here.
