Everything fans should know when attending Steelers training camp

The Pittsburgh Steelers are set to start training camp July 26th in Latrobe, PA. Here is everything fans should know when planning to attend camp this year.

If you are a Steelers fan and live anywhere near Latrobe, Pennsylvania, then attending training camp is a must. There’s nothing like attending an NFL game, and the atmosphere is surreal. But for those fans who would like to see their team in a more casual environment, training camp is for you.

I have gone to Steelers training camp so many times, I begin to lose track of the years. However, there are things that I have picked up on from my many visits. Here is everything you should be aware of when attending training camp:

Chairs/blankets/umbrellas

There are bleachers at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, but they typically fill pretty fast. The playing fields are surrounded by hills, so there are many good places to view practice. I recommend that you bring chairs or blankets to sit on and even umbrellas to protect you from the scorching heat we so often experience.

Food and drinks

If you haven’t gone to camp before, it’s important to know that food and drinks are welcome at camp. Don’t forget to pack a bag full of goodies and drinks to keep you hydrated throughout practice!

Autographs

If you are interested in getting autographs from the players, you have a few options. You could arrive early find a place by the walkway where players come out of the facility, or you could wait until the second half of practice and find a place along the walkway to line up.

Most players don’t stop to sign until the end of practice, and many of the veterans won’t stop to sign autographs at all. Some players are taken by golf carts toward the east end of the practice fields, so you are welcome to test your luck there as well. Don’t forget your Steelers apparel and memorabilia that you would like to have signed!

Drills

The Steelers are typically using upwards of 2-3 practice fields at a time (the offense takes the field closest to the bleachers and the defense goes closest to the facility). When they come together for 11-on-11’s, you are going to want to be at the field nearest to the bleachers/parking lot.

7 shots takes place at the west end of the bleacher field, and is one of the most excited drills to watch. I also like to keep an eye on one-on-one’s like backs vs backers. With multiple drills going on at different fields, find one that works for you. Feel free to get up and move around to get a good angle.

Most practices start at 2:55 p.m., but be sure to check the training camp schedule before making the trip. There are only 13 practices open to the public, so don’t miss your opportunity to visit. I will be in Latrobe this weekend. If you have questions or would like to meet up just to say hi, send me a message on Twitter. Hope to see you there!