What do you get when you mix football players, backyard games, and some great food right off the grill?
You get a 'Ben-B-Que.'
No, Ben Roethlisberger wasn't behind the grill flipping burgers and cooking out for anyone on Saturday, but he did host a special group of individuals for a 'Ben-B-Q' following practice at Saint Vincent College and it was nothing but fun for everyone.
The guests were chosen because of their community involvement, all part of the NFL's goal to have 100 Million Minutes of volunteerism and community activism this year as the league celebrates its 100th season.
"That is what make it fun," said Roethlisberger. "We love giving back to the community and we love when people give back to the community. With them giving back we can reward them for all of their work. It's a fun little thing."
The Steelers chose individuals who give back to the community to honor at the event, including fans and local community leaders who give straight from the heart. Among those attending were Pittsburgh Police Chief Scott Schubert, along with Officer Anthony Burke, who was one of the first responders at the Tree of Life Synagogue shooting, and Officer Zach Beatty. Also part of the group was Pennsylvania Special Olympian Danielle List.
"This is great," said List as she was playing corn hole with Pouncey. "It's a lot of fun just hanging out with the Steelers. It's cool to meet them."
Winners were also selected who shared their community involvement as a part of the #SteelersHuddlefor100, including Rhyan Breen, who helped a rehab project for the Knights of Columbus, and Kimberly Sabatano, who volunteered for a charity golf outing.
"It's such a cool thing for these people to do it and for us to recognize them," said Roethlisberger. "We always get recognized for things we do, but they don't and it's great we are able to do this."
The fun-filled event included first and foremost, food. But the guests also had the chance to compete against Roethlisberger and teammates Maurkice Pouncey, Ramon Foster and Alejandro Villanueva in games like corn hole.
"Having Chief Schubert here, that is my guy," said Pouncey. "He is a great dude. There are a lot of things he does for the community. I can't thank him enough."
