One of the many things that makes the Pittsburgh Steelers a unique franchise is the tradition of training camp at Saint Vincent College. The partnership between the Steelers and Saint Vincent dates back to 1966, with the only exception being 2020 and 2021 when the NFL team could not attend due to COVID-19 protocols. After returning to Latrobe for 2022 training camp, the Steelers are all set to kick off camp on July 26.
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Perhaps the biggest fan of the tradition is head coach, Mike Tomlin. Prior to camp last year, Tomlin spoke on what training camp at Saint Vincent means to him.
"Latrobe in Saint Vincent is a nostalgic venue for me. I not only think about the 15 years that I've had to enjoy, but I also think about the ones that have come before me: world champions caliber teams, some of the best teams and best players ever to play the game. When I walk down the hill at Saint Vincent, I think about how that's the same track that Bill Cowher and Chuck Noll walked as well, and it's humbling and inspiring."
Like Tomlin, key players in Pittsburgh all believe in and appreciate the time in Latrobe. It's competitive, unpredictable, intense training that bonds players and builds winning teams. It's far from glamorous, with high-class athletes setting up their temporary home in humbling dorm rooms and bunking with one another. Last year, Najee Harris kept it real about the dorm rooms being not quite up to par with his standards. It's this environment, however, that makes the experience so special. Those who choose to embrace it and buy in to the process tend to find success.
This year, the Steelers are welcoming an exciting group of newcomers. Between free agency and the draft, the new group in Pittsburgh consists of immediate starters, strong competition and quality depth. Among that group is linebacker Elandon Roberts, who is entering his eighth year in the NFL. After playing with both the New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins, Roberts is excited to experience his first off-site training camp.
“At this part of my career, I’m kind of glad that I’m able to experience that — being able to go off to a camp site. When I was younger, a lot of teams were doing it. But then, when I got in the league, that kind of settled out. So being with a team that still does that tradition and get guys away for team camaraderie, it’s gonna be a neat experience.”
MADDIE MEYER | CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES
Former New England Patriots LB Elandon Roberts
A Full Circle Moment For Steelers' Cornerback Joey Porter Jr.
Rookie out of Penn State University, Joey Porter Jr., has a unique perspective. For Porter Jr., Saint Vincent is familiar territory. With his dad having tenures as both a player and assistant coach for the Steelers, Porter Jr. grew up attending training camp and even had a brief stint as a ball boy. When asked about camp following organized team activities on Thursday, Porter Jr. expressed his excitement to return.
"I used to do this for a long time. I used to be a ball boy getting the balls and watching them practice, and now I’m going to be the guy out there running around. I’m happy."
DAVID J. PHILLIP ASSOCIATED PRESS
Other newcomers like linebacker Cole Holcomb and defensive lineman Breiden Fehoko are looking forward to the experience too. Of course, veteran players have a leg-up and know what to expect. With training camp, expect the unexpected. The weather conditions can be miserable and the days are long and hard. Camp isn't for the weak-minded. With Tomlin however, it's simple, those who smile in the face of adversity will come out on top.
Players report to camp on Wednesday, July 26. Practice opens for the public beginning on July 27th and ending on August 17th. The Steelers travel to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for their first preseason matchup August 11th. Steeler Nation, the wait is almost over. Who are you most excited to see at training camp? Let us know in the comments below!
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