By Jamie Swimmer
Steelers.com Intern
Steelers' alumni had the chance to reminisce when they served as coaches at the 2016 Steelers Men's Fantasy Camp at Saint Vincent College this past weekend.
The former players ran drills for the 250 attendees at the three day camp, and shared stories with each other through it all.
Taking part were linebacker Kevin Greene, a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2016, quarterback Charlie Batch, center Dermontti Dawson, running back Barry Foster, nose tackle Chris Hoke, offensive tackle Tunch Ilkin, safety Carnell Lake, linebacker Greg Lloyd, wide receiver Yancey Thigpen and offensive lineman Craig Wolfley.
"This is where it all originated," said Dawson. "Without the fan support we wouldn't be where we are today. It's always great to come back with the fans because these guys are diehards. It's just great to be able to give back in that way."
Batch helped for the first time at fantasy camp, and enjoyed interacting with all of the attendees.
Steelers fans gather at Saint Vincent College for the 14th annual Men's Fantasy Camp.
"I'm the rookie," said Batch. "You see guys that have been here 14 years so it's impressive from that perspective. But the guys came out ready to work and it was exciting to coach them."
The camp also presents the alumni a great opportunity to catch up with former teammates and friends at their old training camp grounds.
"It's always great to see guys," said Foster. "We played with a great group of guys, we had something special. We had great relationships. I said 'had' great relationships, we still 'have' those same relationships and it's always good to see those guys. Everybody is off and to their own life and doing their own thing, but at the end of the day I may not see a guy for four or five years, but when I see him it's love just like I saw him the day before."
While some of the alumni didn't play with each other, the bond of playing for the Steelers is one that transcends generations.
"It doesn't matter what era you played in, once you're a Steeler, you're a Steeler for life," said Hoke. "Top to bottom, the best organization in sports."
