It was the start of a new chapter.

On Tuesday afternoon at Lucas Oil Stadium, the Colts introduced Frank Reich as their new head coach.

He talked about his coaching roots, starting out as an intern and growing into the job, branching out to quality control coach and quarterbacks coach in the Tony Dungy coaching tree.

His growth continued in Arizona, San Diego, and Philadelphia, where he wrapped up last season with a Super Bowl victory.

On Sunday, he returned to the place where it all began – and it felt like coming home.

"Being over at Mr. Irsay's house the other day to sign the contract, I can't even tell you – that experience is going to be hard to top," Reich said. "In his home, with his family, my family, the Colts family. It literally felt like a family gathering and that's what makes us all tick."

The message was simple.

"Hearing Mr. Irsay's heart was, 'Frank, help us bring the joy back into the city of Indianapolis for the great traditions that we have here, all the games that we've won – let's bring that back again.'"

In the audience at his press conference were current players, along with some former players who helped build that winning tradition.

"I actually played when Frank coached here for a couple years and in that short amount of time, had a lot of respect for him. I'm excited for him to be the head coach, excited to come and celebrate that achievement with him," said former punter Hunter Smith.

For Smith, being a part of the Colts family is something he doesn't take lightly.

"The era that we were a part of, being here for so much success and a championship, there's a certain amount of responsibility you have in the community and to the organization and I take that seriously."

Former long snapper Justin Snow called Reich's return nothing short of a godsend.

"He is such a hard-working man that is so prepared. He's learned from the best. He's learned how to play – and he did it at a high level – but he can bring these past experiences now and relay them to his players and to his team. I just think there's so much value in that. I'm excited for this new chapter for him and his family."

Former punter Pat McAfee was there in his new role, as a member of the media representing Barstool Sports. Reich coached McAfee in the role of backup quarterback for the Colts and the two reminisced about it in a hilarious exchange.

Former wide receiver Bill Brooks played with Reich in Buffalo for two seasons. He came out to show support for his friend, former teammate, and the team that gave him so much.

"There's a lot of great people at the Colts organization. You want to see them do well – you root for them and pull for them," he said. "With Mr. Irsay at the head, you know how bad he wants to win and the things that he's done not just for the team, but for the city. We definitely have a vested interest in the Indianapolis Colts and the things they do."

The Colts are a family.

This week, they welcomed back one of their own.

And together, they're preparing to write the next great chapter in franchise history.