Heading Out to the Field
Got an email blast last Tuesday about this special meetup for Peters Township High football players. Figured why not check it out since my nephew plays linebacker there. Rolled up around 3 PM to the practice field where the event was happening.
Spotting the Big Names
Soon as I walked through the gate, couldn’t miss those two NFL players standing near the goalpost. Felt surreal seeing actual pros in our small-town gear. One of them was juggling three footballs while chatting with coaches.
- Jeremiah Smith from the Steelers stretching by the bleachers
- Marcus Rivera giving a freshman pointers on stance
- Both wearing their practice jerseys looking totally approachable
The Drills Session
Coaches blew whistles splitting kids into groups. The pros ran passing drills themselves first – Rivera did this insane one-handed catch near the endzone had everyone hollering. Smith kept shouting “Feet first, eyes sharp!” like a hype man.
Couple players tried mimicking Rivera’s signature spin move but ate turf. Surprisingly, both pros immediately knelt down correcting their footwork without making them feel dumb.
Q&A Under the Floodlights
After drills, everyone plopped down on the grass for questions. Kid behind me asked Rivera “How many times you mess up before getting good?” Rivera laughed saying “Still messing up daily man – just learn faster now.” Smith shared how he nearly quit sophomore year when he got benched.
Highlight was when head coach pulled out old footage showing Rivera fumbling at state finals years ago – whole group howled seeing this legend’s blooper reel.
Final Takeaways
Biggest thing? Both athletes kept stressing consistency beats talent every time. Watched them stick around signing every single cleat and water bottle until dark. Seeing my nephew practicing that spin move in the driveway this morning proved they made real impact.