Excited Fans Line Up To Watch Steelers Annual Night Practice

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- The Steelers annual Night Practice at Latrobe Memorial Stadium is always a big hit with fans during Training Camp, and black and gold diehards were lining up Friday to watch their favorite players.

The gate opened at Latrobe Memorial Stadium around 5 p.m., and the line outside was a few hundred yards deep.

The most dedicated fans started lining up at 9 a.m. to get a good spot.

But there was also entertainment to pass the time. Kids were running drills just like the Steelers and throwing the football; there was also games and music.

Some fans even made the trip from New York City and Maryland to watch the practice.

"This is our second year. We were here last year and had a fabulous time, so we came back against this year," said fan Ray Richards, of Frostburg, Maryland. "You know, won't miss it."

"We come up every year, every year for the last 20 years, and I'm 76… so there," said another fan.

Many fans said they were there to see Antonio Brown.

"I like all the Steelers, and I like Antonio Brown, [Le'Veon] Bell and Ben Roethlisberger," said fan Rob Bennett, of Bedford, Pennsylvania.

He was hoping to get more autographs on his hat.

"Yes, I'm going to get lots of them, try to get lots of them today," said Bennett.

The players say the excitement goes both ways.

"We look forward to coming out here every first Friday in town," said Antonio Brown.

"Man, it's amazing, look at this amazing Steeler nation out here," said Arthur Moats.

The Steelers sign autographs before starting practice at 7 p.m.

Officials say they expected between 10,000 to 15,000 fans.

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• Pittsburgh Steelers
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