LATROBE, Pa. – Cameron Heyward smiled when he heard the news that there would be a new twist to tonight's 'Friday Night Lights' practice at Latrobe Memorial Stadium.
The yearly practice won't just be viewed by those in attendance, but people tuning in to ESPN's SportsCenter On the Road will get glimpses of Heyward and his teammates on the field during one of the most electric practices of training camp. The show will broadcast live from 7-9 p.m. that night, featuring interviews with Steelers' personnel as well as practice highlights.
"It's like a high school jamboree game," said Heyward. "I have to make sure I record it on the DVR. It's going to be a fun atmosphere. There are probably going to be some wild plays. We all look forward to it and will make the most of it."
Players will grab their shoulder pads and helmets, and just like they did back in their high school days, hop on a school bus and make the short trip from Saint Vincent College to Latrobe Memorial Stadium to put on a show for what always turns out to be a packed house.
"ESPN, SportsCenter being there, it's going to be great," said Vince Williams. "We are going to go out there, have fun, see the kids and put on a good show. It brings back memories of high school days. We want to go out there and put on a show for the fans."
Practice will be the icing on the cake for a day that will be filled with activities for Steelers Nation. The team will host a Steelers Fest from 12-6 p.m. on stadium grounds, featuring Charlie Batch and Chris Hoke.
Prior to the start of practice fans will have an opportunity to obtain autographs at 6:45 p.m., and then the action begins at 7 p.m. It will conclude with a fireworks show, presented by Pepsi.
As part of the Steelers Fest and Friday Night Lights experience, Steelers Nation Unite will be offering members the chance to get rewarded throughout the day. During Steelers Fest, fans can visit the Steelers Nation Unite tent to sign up or verify their membership and spin the prize wheel, where each spin is a winner. Additionally, Steelers Nation Unite will be handing out bags to all fans, which include a decal, Steelers event information and a Steelers Sideline Store coupon, redeemable at the Westmoreland Mall Location.
There will be additional activities and experiences throughout the day and evening, so be sure to stop at the Steelers Nation Unite tent and check out the benefits available to all fans when they join the team's official loyalty program. Fans can also learn more by visiting the program's website at www.SteelersNationUnite.com).
It will be a full day of fun for the fans, but for the players as well.
"It's something I have done since high school," said rookie Demarcus Ayers, who is looking forward to his first 'Friday Night Lights' with the Steelers. "You have to take it all in and perform like it's a big Sunday night game. I am ready for it and eager to see what it's like. It will be a fun time."
