2013

December 26, 2013

“I am proud to be a Steeler”

I told the front…my guys in the D line room …this will be the last time that we get to stand together in that spot, with these group of guys.

Because the way the league is, it changes every year. You change no matter what. So it was emotional there.

I’m just proud to be a Steeler..and proud to have helped finish this thing strong.–Keisel, from his post game interview.

The Steelers did what they needed to do by defeating the Browns 20-7. And, the Bengals and Jets helped them out by getting W’s. Unfortunately, the Chiefs lost to the Chargers, eliminating the Steelers from post season play.

From Jim Wexell:

The Steelers beat the Cleveland Browns 20-7 in a regular-season finale Sunday that really didn’t begin to percolate until about the time the Browns scored their only touchdown.

“It felt great,” said defensive end Brett Keisel. “We really wanted the goose egg, you know what I mean? But to start like that and to make fourth-down stop after fourth-down stop, that was huge, especially short-yardage situations. Those are tough to stop. Great to be a part of it today.”

Keisel had a sack, forced a fumble, and in general played as he has throughout his 12 years in Pittsburgh. But this one was emotional for him. At 35 and with an expiring contract, Keisel wonders whether this was his final appearance at Heinz Field, and he talked to the defensive line before the game about it.

But Keisel also wanted to make one thing clear: He’s not calling it quits.

“Not at all,” he said. “I’m not saying it’s over for me at all. I still feel like I can play. We’ll see.”

Keisel talks about the young players:

“Those young guys stuck with it. Everyone worked with them. Everyone grabbed them and brought them under their arm and helped them. A big reason why we’re successful on the back end is because of how those guys performed.

“You have to give these kids credit for not giving up on themselves, for continuing to come to work, for continuing to learn, checking their pride at the door, listening to us and not acting like they’re too good to listen to us. That’s a big reason why things got turned around.”

Ryan Clark on Brett’s play:

“We have four guys on defense everybody calls old,” said Taylor, a 12-year veteran. “If (the media) just needs to get rid of us, I can respect that. We can talk about being old all day, but Brett is Brett and he played with a lot of passion.

You can watch Brett’s post game interview HERE.

December 13, 2013

“I’M NEVER GOING TO QUIT…”

Brett has been ruled out for the game on Sunday against the Bengals.

From the Steelers today:

Brett Keisel walked off the practice field today offering some tips and some encouragement to practice squad defensive end Brian Arnfelt.

“I’m a captain on this team,” he continued. “I’m used to being out there with my teammates. I want to fight with my teammates. That’s the hardest part, not being able to go out there and fight with your brothers.

“As much work as you put in during the offseason getting ready to go and then a foot takes you out, it’s just frustrating. I probably pushed it too hard initially, and it set me back. And now it’s just trying to get it to where I can go out and perform the way I’m capable of.”

“I’m never going to quit,” he said. “I understand what’s going on with this being the last year of my contract, and I’m the oldest guy on the defense (35) and what not. I still feel like I can play if I’m healthy.

“That’s probably been the most frustrating part, knowing I can still do it and not being able to.”

Read the entire article HERE.

Thank you again to Steeler Nation, and to Brett’s teammates for all the well wishes! We appreciate the show of support!

Support the FREE CARE FUND at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh UPMC.

Because of your generous donations to the Free Care Fund, Children’s Hospital is able to care for every kid in need, regardless of insurance or their families ability to pay…but they can’t do it alone.Brett.

Donate to the Free Care Fund today.

Watch a video with Brett and his adorable co-stars HERE.

Also, CONGRATULATIONS to Ben Roethlisberger on being named the 2013 Steelers Walter Payton Man of the Year!

 

December 12, 2013

STEELERS/UNITED WAY AUTOGRAPH SIGNING

On December 16, six players will be holding an autograph signing with all proceeds going to the United Way Impact Fund.

The signing will take place at Dick’s Sporting Goods at Cranberry Crossroads.

The first session of autographs is from 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., and will feature Brett, Cameron Heyward and Jerricho Cotchery. The second session is from 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. and will feature Emmanuel Sanders, Jason Worilds and Maurkice Pouncey.

Details:

Wristbands are $25 per session and are cash only.

Wristbands will go on sale December 16 at 4:30 p.m. at the lower level entrance of Dick’s Sporting Goods at Cranberry Crossroads.

Autographs are guaranteed to the first 225 people for each session.

Limit ONE autograph per player, per person.

Due to time constraints, no photographs will be allowed during the signing.

Players are subject to change.

Click HERE for a larger view of the photo.

This is a great chance to get an autograph for that special someone on your holiday list or for yourself!

 

December 6, 2013

65 ROSES SPORTS AUCTION A SUCCESS

Awesome time again at the 65 Roses Sports Auction! Doing big things to help those who fight CF. Big THANK YOU to all who made it a great event.–Brett

The 65 Roses Sports Auction was once again a huge success! Thank you to ALL the amazing attendees, volunteers, and to Brett’s teammates for making the event so much fun. Some of the teammates who attended the event were, Troy Polamalu, Heath Miller, Cameron Heyward and Maurkice Pouncey-just to name a few.

It is great to see how supportive they all are of Brett and the CF Foundation.

We also greatly appreciate the fans who entered the Extreme Beard Competition to raise money for the CF Foundation. We will have news on the amazing amounts of money they raised soon!

And, a BIG thank you to McFadden’s for hosting the event at their wonderful venue.

Photos…

Click HERE to view a few photos.

 

December 5, 2013

KEISEL SHOWS HIS PASSION FOR THOSE WITH CF

It’s really getting close to a cure, which is so important. Kids are living longer. They are living happier, healthy lives. Women are able to have children. There was a time when women with cystic fibrosis weren’t able to have children. It’s moving along and we want to continue that. We want to find a cure.– Brett, talking about his passion for find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis.

From Teresa Varley, Steelers.com:

Defensive end Brett Keisel might be struggling with a foot injury on the field, but on Thursday night he wasn’t thinking about his own pain, instead putting those suffering from cystic fibrosis front and center as he hosted the Cystic Fibrosis 65 Roses Sports Auction.

“Brett is one of the people I respect the most and always have,” said Pat Joseph, executive director of the Western Pennsylvania Chapter of Cystic Fibrosis. “It’s so special to have him involved with us. Brett truly cares about the cystic fibrosis community. He has grown with us since we have been privileged enough to have him as our chairperson.

“He is one of those jewels that really care. He cares about the kids, the families. He has that passion in him. He knows what it means, how important a cause it is, and he cares. It’s notable and rather rare to see it and we just love it.”

While the main goal of the evening was to raise funds for research in an effort to find a cure for the disease, Keisel also enjoyed spending time with kids that suffer from cystic fibrosis that he has gotten to know well.

“I have developed relationships with the families and the children that suffer from cystic fibrosis,” said Keisel. “I have gotten to watch the kids grow. You see the kids you have met growing up big and strong. That is what makes me most proud of it.

In addition to a silent and live auction, guests at the event also had an opportunity to obtain autographs from Keisel and some of his teammates.

“It means a lot to have the guys here,” said Keisel. “We are a family in the locker room. That is one thing that makes it special, we always support each other when we are doing things for charity. You know you always have your brothers back.”

Read the entire article HERE.

The news photo is from Kristina Stanley Chichilla. Her daughter, Emma was a CF Ambassador and has attended the event each year with her buddy Brett.

We will have more news and photos later, so be sure to stop back!

 

November 29, 2013

WIN THE JERSEY OFF KEISEL’S BACK…

…Or the shoes off his feet… or the gloves off his hands! We will also be giving away 7 signed photos.

Get your holiday shopping started without ever leaving the comforts of home!

Starting November 26th, 2013, when you place an order in the Online Store, you will be automatically entered into the giveaway.

Winner’s will be notified in late December.

Also, if you place an order for $20 or more we will be throwing in 2 free koozies! Happy shopping and good luck!!

Injury news:

Brett left the game against the Ravens due to a foot injury. So far, there have been no updates on his status. We will keep you posted if news becomes available.

65 Roses Sports Auction:

As we mentioned in the October 5th news below, Brett will once again host the annual 65 Roses Sports Auction to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

The event will be held on December 5, 2013 at McFadden’s.

Tickets are still available: For more information, please contact Sarah Steele at 412.321.4422 or [email protected].

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If you cannot attend, but wish to donate to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, please consider voting (for as little as $1) to one of the entrants in the EXTREME BEARD COMPETITION.

Thank you to Dave Bassili for today’s news photo!

 

November 28, 2013

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Grew up watching football on Thanksgiving. What an awesome opportunity. Special salute to men and women in our military. We are thankful for you!–Brett

We wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving!

 

November 27, 2013

DA BEARD IS A POPULAR TURKEY

As you can tell by the Keisel Kam photos (to the right), Da Beard is a popular turkey!

We appreciate the amazing fans of Steeler Nation.

Today’s news photo was sent by Jamie Keisel, Brett’s sister-in-law. It was drawn by one of her fourth grade students at West Side Elementary in Worland, WY.

Jamie also sent another student photo, which is under the Keisel Kam photos to the right.

We appreciate the “turkey” pictures and hope all of you have a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving!

 

November 24, 2013

HIGH 5’S ALL AROUND

Keisel and Coach LeBeau summed the game against the Browns up well…with a HIGH 5!

Watch the high 5 celebration with LeBeau HEREcourtesy of Steelers Depot.

The Steelers dominated the Browns on both sides of the ball today.

From Ed Bouchette:

The Steelers won their third straight game Sunday, dominating the Cleveland Browns 27-11.

Ben Roethlisberger threw two touchdown passes to Antonio Brown and Emmanuel Sanders. He completed 22 of 34 passes for 217 yards, no interceptions and no sacks.

The Steelers forced four Cleveland turnovers, three fumbles and William Gay’s 21-yard interception return for a touchdown with 4:27 to go in the game, his first career score on a pickoff. Gay also forced a fumble, and Troy Polamalu forced two fumbles.

Way to go Steelers!

Congratulations to Ben Roethlisberger for earning Steelers Digest Player of the Week honors!

Social media chatter:

From @HamptonsGut via Twitter:

I bet Brett Keisel agrees that Brownies taste good on top of a 3 stack!!!

Brett agrees!

Keisel did not play in the game due to injury. His status for the Thanksgiving Day game against Baltimore is unknown, at this time.

Injury did not stop #99 from encouraging his teammates…

From Andrew Stockey (WTAE) via Twitter:

Brett Keisel is sweats on sidelines offering high five to defenders coming off field after stop.

Today’s news photo is from @JEck8727 via Twitter.

 

November 22, 2013

FAN FRIDAY

Floatin’ with our Terrible Towel:

Diesel, here’s my son and I on our recent deployment to the Middle East.

Got some time off and floated in the Dead Sea with our Terrible Towels.

We are going to be on the field Sunday to help hold the flag for pregame so we will be looking for you for a pic in our uniforms. Sack some Brownies for us bro!– Todd Copic Sr.

More from the Copic Duo:

My son and I on our recent deployment to the Middle East. We got a little R&R and visited Petra and the Dead Sea.

We will be on the field this Sunday holding the big flag before the game and hope to get a pic with you in our uniforms.

Keep your ears open, I’ll be yelling for you. Get us another hot cake this week bro!!!!!!

Thank you to the Copic’s, and to all our military men and women for all they do for us!

Have a great time at the game!

Wave those Terrible Towels!

That smile:

Kylei is all smiles in her cute pink Steelers gear!

She’s got her Terrible Towel and is ready for her first tailgate.

Photo sent by proud grandfather, Mike Moore.

So excited to watch her Steelers:

The Steelers don’t have cheerleaders, but if they did, this adorable little one would be perfect for the job!

She has the cheerleading outfit, the hair band, and of course the sparkling smile!

Photo sent by Amy Schwimmer Minnear.

For a great article on Brett and his wife, Sarah (along with some wonderful photos), please check out the link in yesterday’s news.

For news and photos from Brett’s Hunt with the Black & Gold, please refer to the November 20 news.

 

November 21, 2013

BRETT KEISEL IS HERE TO HELP

We post a lot of great news and articles on Mr. Keisel, but today I read an article from Sean Collier (with photos from Laura Petrilla), Pittsburgh Magazine that I think is one of the best articles I have ever read on #99.

I think you all will enjoy it also.

From the article:

Over his 12 years in the league, he’s emerged as a player who puts himself forward — in the locker room, at events, to the media — in service of a greater goal. Why put himself out there at all? No one demanded this of him; no one insisted that he be a beast on the field, a jester in front of crowds and a saint for a good cause. He’s put that together himself, piece by piece. Even as Steelers fans and Keisel’s teammates have traced that development, though, he hasn’t necessarily stopped to explain: Here’s why I’m doing this.

Former Steelers guard and current team sideline reporter Craig Wolfley is quick to affirm Keisel’s status. “He’s the commander of the defense,” Wolfley says. “He’s the guy who has been there, done that — and done so at such a high level that he has carte blanche to lead.”

To Keisel, the message he needs to convey is essential. “I want them to know that I care about this team and I care about winning,” he says.

On growing Da Beard:

“I just wanted to do something different,” Keisel says. “I watched our hockey team go through the playoffs, and they grew these giant beards. I couldn’t remember a football player with a giant beard, so I decided to try it.”

I don’t understand what you’re doing.– Steelers Chairman Dan Rooney

“Mr. Rooney, I don’t want the Steelers to look down on me,” Keisel replies, caught off guard by the ambassador’s opening statement. “Or you, especially. If you don’t like this thing, I’ll go in the locker room right now and cut it off.”

Rooney pauses, evaluating Keisel. “No, you keep it,” he finally says.

Shear Da Beard events:

The beneficiary of all three Shear Da Beard events (held in 2011 and 2012 at Diesel and in 2013 at Jergel’s Rhythm Grille in Warrendale) has been the oncology department at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC. Over three years, the shavings have raised approximately $120,000.

“Brett and his wife Sarah — who is very key as well — are some of the best friends that Children’s Hospital has,” says Children’s President Christopher A. Gessner.

“We have many, many athletes [who] come and visit, and we’re very appreciative of their time. But [there are] not too many [who] actively look for ways to help us benefit children. I’ve been here for 12 years, and he certainly stands out as that kind of very special person [who] actually generates the ideas for us.”

The real Brett Keisel:

It seems that the disparate elements of Brett Keisel’s personality share one basic premise: that he can help. If he’s a stone-faced monster on the football field, that can help inspire his teammates. If he’s riding a dump truck to Saint Vincent College or letting his beard turn into a tangled thicket of fur, that can rally Steelers Nation — and eventually, do some good for children in need. If he’s quietly making unannounced visits with kids who need a break from reality, that can help a family make it to the next day. The actions change; the motivation does not.

So who’s at the core? Of all the different versions of Brett Keisel that the public sees, who’s left when Keisel is alone?

“It’s probably my family side,” Keisel says. “That’s what I think about the most. How lucky I am to have a great wife, how lucky I am to have three healthy, beautiful children.

“Taking everything away, that’s what I’m most proud of.”

Brett goes on to discuss why he chose Children’s Hospital as the beneficiary of his Shear Da Beard events, other causes he supports and why children are so important to him. There are also some amazing photos of Da Beard, so we hope you will stop by and read the article.

Click HERE to read the entire article.

 

November 20, 2013

THE HUNT WITH THE BLACK & GOLD

Yesterday was a dream day for some lucky fans…

Brett hosted a group of contest winners to a HUNT WITH THE BLACK & GOLD which included lunch with Da Beard and other players at the Alpine Fishing and Hunting Club. This was a once in a lifetime opportunity to shoot and trap with a member of the team, guides, a dog, stocked birds, and there was also an autograph session with Da Beard and his teammates.

The contest was sponsored by Gander MountainNorthwest Savings Bank, and 84 Lumber.

It was coordinated by The Marbury Group and a delicious lunch was provided by Smith Provision.

Many of Brett’s teammates joined him, including Will Allen, Lawrence Timmons, Kion Wilson, Matt Speath, Michael Palmer, Greg Warren, Joe Long, Cody Wallace and Bruce Gradkowski.

The Hunt today was a great day… my first time hunting!–Will Allen

Thanks Brett Keisel for a great day. Can’t beat a day of hunting!–Matt Spaeth

Had a great time hunting today with Matt Spaeth and Brett Keisel!–Michael Palmer

Contest winner John DeLouis took some time to email about his day in Da Woods…

Yesterday was the Brett Keisel hunting event. I had an absolutely incredible time! I am so grateful for the opportunity to meet the guys and hunt with them.

We got autographs and spent some one on one time together. It was awesome to be able to speak to the players and have them speak to me as if I was one of “the guys”.

They included me and my guest in everything they did and even invited us to do a little trap/skeet shooting with them. They treated me as if I had been going there for years.

All of the players were very humble and didn’t think of themselves as being above us. Brett even gave me some beard growing tips!

Overall this was one of the best days of my life so far. I want to thank you and all of Gander Mountain for this incredible once in a lifetime chance to do this. I will definitely be entering again next year in hopes that I could get lucky again! Thank you so much!

Thank you John for your kind email, and we are glad you had a great time!

And, from @theONEryno, via Twitter:

It was such an honor meeting you, Brett Keisel !! Thank you for the opportunity to go hunting with you!

View more photos from the Hunt with the Black & Gold sent by Brett’s teammates, Alpine Hunting and Fishing Club and the contest winners…HERE.

Thank you to Alpine Fishing and Hunting Club for their awesome photos. Stop by their website to view MANY more photos and to check out their Club!

The Alpine Club is a great location for parties, receptions, excellent cuisine and outdoor sports.

Also, thank you to Will Allen, Matt Spaeth, Michael Palmer, John DeLouis and @theONEryno for their great photos.

A big thanks goes out to Gander Mountain, 84 Lumber, Northwest Savings Bank, The Marbury Group, The Alpine Hunting and Fishing Club and Smith Provisions for making this day possible.

 

November 17, 2013

TAKING THE ROAR OUT OF THE LIONS

Steelers 37, Lions 27

The Steelers started out strong, holding a two touchdown lead in the second quarter. The Lions roared back and made the score 27-20 at the half, and the Heinz Field crowd became quiet.

Detroit WR Calvin Johnson caught six passes for 179 yards and two touchdowns in the first half for Detroit, but the Steelers defense did not allow him to catch a pass at all in the second half.

The game momentum turned when the Lions lined up for a 27-yard field goal, but rookie holder Sam Martin took off with the ball and tried to run it through a gap on the left side of the Steelers’ coverage unit. But Steve McLendon forced a fumble that Ryan Clark recovered, and the Steelers took over at their own 3.

Ben Roethlisberger went on to lead two touchdown drives which sealed the win for Pittsburgh.

Detroit remained winless in Pittsburgh since 1955, a stretch of 10 games (0-9-1).

Game notes from Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

Brett was inactive during the game due to a foot injury. We will update you as the week goes on, if information is available. We appreciate all the emails and messages wishing him well.

Charlie Hunnam leads Terrible Towel Twirl:

From Teresa Varley:

Actor Charlie Hunnam, the star of Sons of Anarchy and Legendary Pictures movie Pacific Rim, was at Steelers practice on Saturday and attended Sunday’s Steelers-Lions game. Hunnam, who is from Newcastle, England, was attending his first NFL game and was thrilled to help fire the crowd up doing the Terrible Towel Twirl with former Steelers guard Kendall Simmons.

“It’s very exciting and cool,” said Hunnam. “For me to have my first NFL experience to come here, see the Steelers and meet some of the players, it’s pretty amazing.

“I am very excited. To do the Terrible Towel Twirl is ridiculously cool. I am going to walk it through and make sure I don’t mess anything up.”

It was great seeing Mr. Hunnam reppin’ Steeler Nation and #99!

Thank you to Mr. Hunnam for the great photo!

View another photo of him with Brett HERE.

November 15, 2013

FAN FRIDAY

Back to the BYU days:

Sporting the Keisel jersey from BYU. Keisel is my cousin and we couldn’t be anymore proud!”–Spencer and Taylor Pierce

It is always great to see the amazing following Brett has from BYU Nation, Steeler Nation, Da Beard Nation and of course from his family!

Thanks for the photo.

Steeler Nation cutie:

Averie Ryan showing her Steeler Spirit!”–Mikki Deal Hendon

The Steelers not only have the best fans, but they also have the most adorable fans!

Thank you Mikki and Averie for the photo-Go Steelers

The Terrible Towel fits in anywhere:

Doug Bowman sent this photo with his lovely bride on their wedding day…complete with their Terrible Towel!

The background is gorgeous, but we think the TERRIBLE TOWEL makes it even better!

Congrats to the Bowman’s and thank you for taking the time to share part of your beautiful day with Steeler Nation!

Fear this beard:

My son had to have a fear the beard!–Jamie Davies Cowan

Thank you once again to all who have sent Fan Friday photos! We love sharing them with Steeler Nation.

It is always awesome to see how creative you all are.

Also…

Big Congrats to the Cutch!–Keisel

The Pirates Andrew McCutcheon (The Cutch) was named the National League MVP! Congrats to him and the Pirates on a great season.

November 12, 2013

2013 EXTREME BEARD COMPETITION

Does your facial hair rival Da Beard’s? Do you like helping out great causes? If so, THIS is the contest for you!

As we mentioned in the October 5th news below, Brett will once again host the annual 65 Roses Sports Auctionto benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

The event will be held on December 5, 2013 atMcFadden’s.

This contest could win you a ticket to the main event and autograph signing.

This is an excellent opportunity to win a chance to meet Brett and his teammates, while helping to raise money for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Please click HERE for specific information regarding the contest.

Also, please scroll down to the October 5 news for more information on the 65 Roses Sports Auction.

Take a look at some of the contestants who have already entered the contest HERE.

If you cannot attend the event, but wish to donate to the cause, then consider donating to help one of the Extreme Beard competitors reach their goal-for as little as a dollar donation!

Just click on the photo of the contestant you wish to donate to, and you will see a link to their personal page.

It is amazing to see what money the contestants have raised so far for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Thank you Da Beard and Steeler Nation!

Good luck! We hope to have LOTS of entries to choose from, so please help spread Da Word!

 

November 10, 2013

STEELERS DEFEAT BILLS 23-10

“It was a step in the right direction, it was. ONE step in the right direction. One good game. We don’t need to pat ourselves on the back, we just need to continue to work and do the things we did this week to get us this win.”– Keiselfrom his post game interview.

From Alan Robinson:

The defense came back from one of the worst days in team history to limit a perplexed Buffalo offense to a lone field goal until the closing seconds, and the Steelers scored 23 consecutive points during a 23-10 win Sunday over the Bills at Heinz Field.

The Bills (3-7) were forced to settle for a Dan Carpenter 20-yard field goal after driving to the Steelers’ 1 on their opening drive. After two Fred Jackson runs moved them from the 9 to the 1, rookie quarterback E.J. Manual badly overthrew Stevie Johnson in the end zone on third-and-goal.

Steelers defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau is now 17-2 against rookie quarterbacks.

The Bills didn’t come close to getting into the end zone again until Manuel threw a short touchdown pass to Chris Gragg with three seconds remaining. Buffalo came in running for nearly 146 yards per game, but were held to 95 yards by a Steelers defense that came in next-to-last against the run.

The big thing is stepping in and playing right from the get-go,” Keisel said. “Holding them to a field goal there our first series was big for us.– Brettfrom his post game press conference.

From Ed Bouchette:

Bills QB E.J.Manuel completed 22 of 39 passes for only 155 yards, that late touchdown and Ryan Clark’s team-high second interception.

All week LeBeau reminded them to do their jobs, not try to get out of position to help someone else. It was one reason they had given up so many plays, culminating in those team-record 55 points and 610 yards they allowed to the Patriots the week before.

It was an appropriate response after what happened to us a week ago,” Keisel said. “Being embarrassed like that, it was good for us to come back, bounce back and play like we did.

Steelers honor military veterans:

Pre-Game Quotes:

From Burt Lauten, Steelers PR:

Great scene pregame with Brett Keisel paying tribute to a wounded soldier on sideline prior to game. Soldier had a #99 jersey.

From fan Kayleigh Elizabeth:

Nothing like seeing 99 stand next to a disabled vet. Tears. So glad to be at Heinz #VeteransDay weekend!

Thank you to Elizabeth Nathan for the photo!

View photos in the 2013 Season Photo Gallery.

We thank all those who are serving and who have served this great country!

November 3, 2013

“THIS IS A DISGUSTING TASTE”

“This is a disgusting taste. Everyone needs to do more, be better in all areas. For a long time here we’ve been tough because we’ve played great defense here. We need to get back to that.”–Keisel, after the loss to New England.

Coach Tomlin on the loss:

“I am angry. I’m disappointed. We don’t have time for perplexed. We are capable of better than that. We’ve got to be better than that, we weren’t. So we’re going to fix it.”

The defense got to Tom Brady a few times, but today it was not enough times to get the win.

“There’s a reason Brady is considered the best. He beat us all over the place today. As simple as that.”–Keisel

#99 isn’t ready to give up:

“A lot of character is going to be on display this week to see how we respond to getting beat like this.”

The same holds true for us as fans…let’s show the players and team we are behind them and believe in them!

Read more on the game HERE.

The Steelers will take on the Buffalo Bills next Sunday.

 

November 1, 2013

FAN FRIDAY

Here We Go Steelers… Here We Go…

This group of adorable Steelers-lovin’ cousins got together for a Black & Gold photo shoot.

Tina Atkins Hill sent the photo of Jax, Sessly, Caleb and Finn.

Great to know this crew will be cheering for their favorite team for years to come!

Mixed loyalties…

Our bulldog boy Brees.

He’s named for his Daddy’s favorite Saint but reppin’ his Mama’s Steelers and her favorite #99 today!–Karen Lynn Bomgardner

Drew Brees is a great player, but I think we all agree YOUR Brees looks best in Steelers gear, especially in #99!

Love seeing all the Steeler-lovin’ pets!

And, Brees seems to have the Keisel stare down pat!

Meet one of the newest members to Steeler Nation…

My little girl, 5 days old and ready to root on the Pittsburgh Steelers!

Newest member of Steeler Nation.– Jason Yoder

Jason, she is adorable! Congratulations on your bundle of joy!

She looks pretty cozy wrapped up in her Terrible Towel!

It’s always nice to see we’ll have new generations of Steeler Nation for years to come.

We still have more Fan Friday photos to post, so if the photo you sent is not posted yet, it will be soon!

Thank you to all who are sending their photos and stories!

If you missed the fan Halloween photos we received, check them out in our Black- N – Ghoul album.

 

October 31, 2013

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

Anyone recognize who Antonio Brown chose to be for Halloween?

And, how did the REAL Da Beard react to seeing AB’s costume choice?

“You are are so handsome..you know that?–Keisel

Watch and listen his reaction HERE.

Great segment Antonio!

From Erin Toth:

My three year old son loves you!

He picked this Halloween costume out all by himself. He only wanted to be Brett the Diesel Keisel! Happy Halloween!

He looks great in his #99 gear…complete with Da Beard!

Happy Halloween to you also!

From Rob Rutkowski:

Dressed up as Keisel for the 96.1 KISS Halloween party at Stage AE last weekend! Took 2nd place in the costume contest!

Awesome costume Rob and congratulations on winning second place!

You can view more Halloween photos HERE.

Thank you to all who sent photos! Have a safe and Happy Halloween!

 

October 28, 2013

BRETT KEISEL’S OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

Stop by Gander Mountain for your chance to win a private VIP pheasant hunt for two.

The ULTIMATE day in the outdoors with Da Beard!

Stop by any Gander Mountain in Erie, Greensburg, Johnstown, Moon Township, Washington or West Mifflin to enter.

Registration ends November 3, 2013.

You must have a valid Pennsylvania hunting license. More information available at participating locations.

This is the chance of a lifetime for all you hunters out there, so don’t miss out!

We wish all entrants the best of luck!

Check below (in the earlier addition of October 28 news) for game news and notes.

 

October 28, 2013

“YOU GOTTA BE READY TO GO…”

From Mike Prisuta:

It sounded on Sunday in Oakland as if there will be a great deal to talk about this week on the South Side of Pittsburgh.

For starters, defensive end Brett Keisel wanted to talk about the Steelers falling behind 7-0 on the first offensive snap, and then falling behind further to 14-0 midway through the first quarter on the way to an eventual 21-18 loss to the Raiders.

“We gotta come out of the locker room ready to play, we do,” Keisel said. “We can’t ease into football games. When the National Anthem goes, you gotta be ready to go. So far this season we’ve struggled in that area. We gotta step into stadiums ready to go.

“It’s gonna be addressed. It’ll be addressed. I might address it. It’ll just be something where I’ll talk to the team. We’ve gotta be better in that area. I want everyone to understand that.”– Keisel, following the loss.

Praise for #99:

From Dave Bryan:

Mr. Bryan named Brett as one of his “winners” from the Raiders game… “Brett Keisel got off to a slow start in the game but bounced back nicely from the second quarter on. PFF credited him with one sack, three quarterback hurries and six stops in the game. He also had a fumble recovery in the second half as well.”

Read more HERE.

Brett was also considered for Player of the Game from Steelers Digest. The honor went to Emmanuel Sanders.

 

October 27, 2013

GOOD LUCK FROM THE WYOMING KEISEL BUNCH

We continue our “Good Luck” messages this week with Brett’s brother, Chad and his wonderful family.

Go Steelers! From the Wyoming Keisel bunch! Chad, Jamie, Gabe, Zack, Abby, Ella and Kru!

Brett’s nepehew, Gabe, plays high school football for the Greybull Buffs, just as his dad and Uncle Brett did.

We appreciate Brett’s sister-in-law, Jamie putting together the message and photos!

View some photos of the Wyoming Keisel bunch, and previous good luck messages HERE.

 

October 25, 2013- Afternoon Update

1ST AND 10 WITH KEISEL

From Teresa Varley:

What have you seen from Terrelle Pryor that makes him a dangerous quarterback?

He’s one of those special players who are gifted athletes. I remember watching him and reading about him when he was in high school here (at Jeannette High School). He was doing things that nobody else could stop or contain. He is a guy you have to key for. You always have to account for him rushing. He can take off. He is their leading rusher and that includes the great Darren McFadden. That shows you what he is capable of.

What’s it like playing in Oakland, in the “Black Hole,” dealing with all of those fans?

It’s like Halloween out there every week. Coach (Mike) Tomlin showed us the history of the series going back to the 70s. There is a deep rivalry there, especially back in the day how competitive those two teams were. It’s a tough place to play with a great history. It’s one of those things you have to relish and go get a win.

How tough is it to deal with a quarterback that has the ability to run?

It’s tough, but that is the way the league is getting. A lot of quarterbacks are given the ability to scramble when there is nothing there. We have faced guys like that before. Everyone just needs to make sure to take care of your responsibility, your rush lane. If you do that you can contain him.

Read more HERE.

Today’s news photo: Pittsburgh Steelers.

2013 Extreme Beard Competition:

Check out the news below to see how to enter the beard competition and win an invite to Brett’s 65 Roses Sports Auction!

Congratulations to Ben Roethlisberger:

Ben Roethlisberger was honored on Friday afternoon at the 13th Annual Amen Corner Senator John Heinz Law Enforcement Awards Luncheon at the Sheraton Hotel at Station Square.

Visit BigBen7 to read more!

 

October 25, 2013

2013 EXTREME BEARD COMPETITION

Does your facial hair rival Da Beard’s? Do you like helping out great causes? If so, THIS is the contest for you!

As we mentioned in the October 5th news below, Brett will once again host the annual 65 Roses Sports Auctionto benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

The event will be held on December 5, 2013 atMcFadden’s.

This contest could win you a ticket to the main event and autograph signing.

This is an excellent opportunity to win a chance to meet Brett and his teammates, while helping to raise money for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Please click HERE for specific information regarding the contest.

Also, please scroll down to the October 5 news for more information on the 65 Roses Sports Auction.

Good luck! We hope to have LOTS of entries to choose from, so please help spread Da Word!

 

October 22, 2013

BRETT KEISEL’S OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

Stop by Gander Mountain for your chance to win a private VIP pheasant hunt for two.

The ULTIMATE day in the outdoors with Da Beard!

Stop by any Gander Mountain in Erie, Greensburg, Johnstown, Moon Township, Washington or West Mifflin to enter.

Registration ends November 3, 2013.

You must have a valid Pennsylvania hunting license. More information available at participating locations.

This is the chance of a lifetime for all you hunters out there, so don’t miss out!

We wish all entrants the best of luck!

 

October 20, 2013- Post game update

HUGE DIVISION WIN

Steelers 19, Ravens 16

It was great to hear Heinz rocking again, to feel that atmosphere. Hopefully we can build off that. — Keisel, after defeating the Baltimore Ravens

Well, Steeler Nation..can you all breathe now? What a game! We knew it would probably be a close game, and boy was it. Great job by the Steelers to get the division win.

From Ed Bouchette:

Shaun Suisham, who won three games on his final kick last season, did it again tonight when his 42-yard field goal with no time left gave the Steelers a 19-16 victory over the Baltimore Ravens tonight.

Their second straight victory lifted the Steelers’ record to 2-4. Baltimore, the reigning Super Bowl champs, fell to 3-4.

The game was typically close for this epic rivalry between AFC North Division rivals.

From Coach Tomlin this week:

“We really just need to focus on being a tough team to beat. Doing that is within our control. We have to minimize the penalties that destroy drives on offense, and we have to be able to operate defensively and communicate and have assignment execution in the middle of a hostile environment.

Brett talks about playing as a team:

What I’m most proud of is it was a team win. All three phases did something to contribute positively today. There’s not much room for error for us. If we prepare like we have the last two weeks, we can compete with anybody.

Does Keisel feel the Steelers-Ravens rivalry still exists…

It’s still violent. It’s still smashmouth. It still came down to the very end. That’s what these games are about.

Congratulations to Shaun Suisham-this was his SIXTH game-winning field goal as a Steeler and the EIGHTH of his career!

We will have more game news and photos throughout the week, so be sure to check back here!

 

October 20, 2013

GOOD LUCK WISHES

Last week we posted good luck wishes from Brett’s parents, Lane and Connie Keisel (see their photo and message by clicking the link at the end of this post.)

This week we heard from Brett’s niece, Kelsi and her handsome boys.

“You guys ROCK!”–Cooper (6)

“You guys are the best!””–Lane (9)

“Nice job defeating the Jets last week, now please beat the Ravens!”–Max (7)

“I wuv my Steewers!!”–Kyler (4)

Kelsi, her husband Tristen, and their four boys all decked out in Steelers gear and Da Beard Gear for their family Christmas photo!

Thank you to Kelsi, Tristen, Lane, Max, cooper and Kyler for their photos and awesome messages!

You can also view the photos HERE.

We appreciate all the photos and good luck messages for Brett and his teammates!

 

October 18, 2013

FAN FRIDAY

Takin’ down the pumpkin patch:

Adorable Luca Massucci may be too young to sack quarterbacks just yet, but he has no problem taking down a pumpkin patch in his #99 jersey.

From Luca’s dad, Mike:

Our son Luca running through pumpkins like you run through O-Linemen!

Go get em’ Luca!

From Oklahoma Steelers Nation:

Here’s a picture of my new granddaughter, Lucy. I was born in Pittsburgh, but have lived in Oklahoma the past 35 years. My granddaughter was born in Killeen Texas , but I’m working on her.

My other daughter and I were there last year in Dallas, amongst the thousands of other fans!Dave Francis

A handsome namesake:

My husband and I just had a son on October 4, 2013.

He was born at 9:13 pm 7lbs. 6oz. 20 inches long.

We have had him name picked out since June but have kept it a secret until the day he was born.

His name is Keisel Joseph Bennardo. We can’t wait to have a chance for him to meet Brett in the near future.Peter, Melissa, and Keisel Bennardo

Generations of Steelers fans

Here is our daughter Josephine. She was born on a game day and now we are getting ready for one at my parents house in Western NY.

Loving the Steelers is a family affair through three generations!

GO STEELERS! — Verna Cromwell

Love seeing Josephine already signaling TOUCHDOWN Steelers!

Thank you to all who sent photos and stories for Fan Friday! We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your stories with us!

Game Chatter:

Keisel talks about the Steelers-Ravens rivalry HERE.

Brett is listed as “probable” for the game Sunday.

 

October 17, 2013

RAVENS WEEK

It’s a grudge match, it really is.Keisel, on playing the Baltimore Ravens.

From Mike Prisuta:

Brett Keisel knows what Steelers-Ravens games are all about, and he also understands what a victory might mean for the winning team.

“It’s a grudge match, it really is,” Keisel said. “It always seems to be close. It always seems to come down to the end. It always seems to come down to who made a mistake and who didn’t. Hopefully, we don’t.”

“Usually the winner of these games goes on and does good things in the playoffs. One of us has been in the AFC Championship Game, I don’t know how many of the last years. It’s just a very important, tough matchup.”

Read more HERE.

For those who will be in the Pittsburgh area tomorrow, and throughout the weekend, and for those attending the game Sunday, stop by Steelers.com for a list of all the “happenings”, such as a live broadcast of ESPN’s Mike and Mike show, going pink for breast cancer awareness and a food drive to benefit the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank.

Lots of fun events going on in Pittsburgh this weekend!

 

September 25, 2013

DA HUNT WITH DA BEARD

2013 HUNT WITH THE BLACK & GOLD CONTEST:

Nine lucky winners and their guests will get the opportunity to hunt with Da Beard and other Pittsburgh players!

The winners will receive an invitation to the 2013 Hunt with the Black & Gold, which includes lunch with the players in a private setting, a once in a lifetime opportunity to shoot and trap with a member of the team, guides, a dog, stocked birds, and also an autograph session.

Brett is trying to recruit Ben Roethlisberger to attend..“I would like Ben to come. Ben’s a good hunter, he’s come a long way, my man Benjamin.” Brett also hinted that Lawrence Timmons may join him.

How to register:

Visit any participating Northwest Savings Bank in the PA. area, and also many Gander Mountain locations have registration forms.

Rules:

Please take some time to read the rules for the contest HERE.

You MUST be at least 18 years of age to enter and have a valid PA hunting license.

Registration will end on November 1, 2013. The hunt will be held on November 19, 2013.

 

October 13, 2013

AND, WE HAVE A WIN!!!

Steeler Nation way to take over MetLife! One hot cake… eleven to go. Keisel

Steelers 19, Jets 6

The Steelers got that elusive first win today against the New York Jets. The Steelers defense allowed no Jets touchdowns, and had two interceptions during the game.

From Alan Robinson:

A sturdy and steady Ben Roethlisberger threw a 55-yard touchdown pass to Emmanuel Sanders early in the second half, shortly before Ryan Clark’s interception ended the defense’s season-long streak of failing to force a turnover, and the Steelers held rookie quarterback Geno Smith and the New York Jets scoreless in the final 30 minutes of a 19-6 victory Sunday at MetLife Stadium.

A defense that played a substantial stretch with the lead for the first time all season forced two turnovers, both Smith-thrown interceptions, and kept the Jets (3-3) out of the end zone only six days after Smith threw three touchdowns passes in a come-from-behind win at Atlanta. Smith, the former West Virginia quarterback, now has 13 turnovers this season.

Brett had three tackles during the game and was very distruptive up front. He left the game in the first half with what Coach Tomlin said was a rib injury. “We will take a look at it. He is probably going to be limited during the course of the week. He should perk up toward the end of next week. We’ll see, though.”-Coach Tomlin.

We appreciate all the well wishes fans are sending to Mr. Keisel. The support from Steeler Nation is always Da Best!

Read more on the game, and watch some video highlights HERE.

Fun fact from the Steelers:

The Steelers are the fourth team in NFL history (1st in AFC) to reach 600 franchise wins (including the postseason).

Today’s news photo is of Brett with Eric LeGrand. He is a retired American football defensive tackle who played college football at Rutgers. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed him to a symbolic contract as an undrafted free agent in May 2012.

He was paralyzed in a game against Army in 2010. He has since regained movement in his shoulders, and doesn’t want anybody feeling sorry for his predicament.

“I’ve got the whole world behind my back,” LeGrand said on WFAN. “How can I get mad every day when I wake up? I just know that I’m here to help so many other people out, and so many people look up to me. I take this on as a responsibility, in order for me to get better and help so many people out there, because this is what I truly believe I’m here to do.”

LeGrand reiterated the fact that he will, one day, walk again.

“I 100 percent believe I will walk again in my lifetime,” LeGrand told Carton. ”I’m here to help so many other people, and I believe that I’m going to get a bunch of other people walking just like I am, and be able to live their dreams.”- (Via CBS New York).

We all wish Mr. LeGrand the best!

 

October 11, 2013

FAN FRIDAY

Steeler Strong:

From Missy Porsch:

Here’s a picture of our little girl, Clara Porsch.

She was born 2 months premature on January 30th, 2013. She was only 4lbs 4 oz when she was born.

After a month of being in the NICU, we brought in Clara’s Terrible Towel so she could get Steeler strong!

Even though we live in Dallas, Texas, the nurses kept that Terrible Towel on her all the time.

Less than a week later she was discharged!!! Here she is now, all ready for her 1st football season- a healthy 7 month old baby!

Steeler Nation gained an adorable little fighter. Best wishes to Clara and her family!

Da Beard Collection:

Jeff “The Goat” Hollamby has been a long time supporter of Brett and his website. When Brett and the Da Beard Crew started Da Beard Gear, Jeff was thrilled. And, as you can see from the photo, he has collected most, if not all, of the t-shirts available!

Jeff and his family even wore their Da Beard Gear for their family Christmas photo!

Thank you to Jeff, and his family for supporting Brett and Da Beard Gear!

The biggest lil’ fan:

Brianne Horton Ihlenburg sent the photo of this beautiful lil’ Steelers fan.

She is ready to play, cheer or dance for her favorite team!

Thank you to Brianne, Missy and Jeff for sharing their photos!

We appreciate all of you who have shared your fan photos and stories!

The Steelers will take on the New York Jets this Sunday at 1:00 p.m. (EST).

 

October 10, 2013

TEAM ELIJAH “LIGHTS THE NIGHT”

We are Lighting The Night for Leukemia and Lymphoma. Proud to be a member of Team Elijah! —Keisel

From Teresa Varley tonight:

When former Steelers defensive end Aaron Smith and his family first started participating in the Leukemia Lymphoma Society Light the Night Walk five years ago with their son Elijah, the young boy was going through treatment, dealing with the side effects that come with the illness.

But for the second straight year the Smiths have gathered with friends, family and former teammates outside of Heinz Field to celebrate survivorship, as they do the walk with a totally different Elijah, a nine-year old filled with life and energy.

“From a parent’s standpoint to see your child go through such a hardship with cancer, and then to beat the cancer and come here and have this celebration,” said Smith. “For a lot of these families they are still in the middle of this. It’s an opportunity to rally and support each other. What LLS does for them is unbelievable.”

Smith knows he couldn’t have fought the battle without support from those within the Steelers organization, including teammates who were there for him from the moment Elijah was diagnosed with leukemia.

“This event has been awesome since we got involved back in 2008,” said Brett Keisel, who was joined by his family for the walk. “Elijah was a big inspiration for our football team back then and he continues to be today. To come out and support him and the Smith family is something we love to do. Aaron has done so much for us. We are all family and it’s just a little way we can give back.”

Read more, and view a cute photo of the Smith family HERE.

We wish Elijah and the Smith family all the best!

 

October 5, 2013

UPCOMING EVENTS

65 Roses Sports Auction:

Brett will once again host the annual 65 Roses Sports Auction to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

The event will be held on December 5, 2013 atMcFadden’s.

From CF Western PA. Chapter:

Calling all Pittsburghians and Steelers Fans, join us Thursday, December 5, 2013 for a once in a lifetime opportunity to shake hands with your Pittsburgh Steelers.

This unique event, hosted by Honorary Chairman, Brett Keisel, includes your very own keepsake football, that can be used during the autograph session with the attending Steelers players.

Additionally, you will induldge in a field goal kick for your tastebuds buffet-style dinner,a highly anticipate “football frenzy” with a chance to win amazing prizes and so much more! Don’t miss out on this annual sport spectacular which also features a live and silent auction with memorabilia from your favorite hometown teams.

This event is one touchdown that has Steelers fans waving their terrible towels and you do not want to miss out.

Become a sponsor and you will receive the outstanding benefits of our regular ticket price but also enjoy an exclusive opportunity to attend the private Fear Da Beard VIP reception with Brett Keisel. Donors at this level also receive a commemorative photo with Brett to remember their experience for years to come! Individual VIP tickets are reserved for sponsors until November 1st, any remaining VIP tickets may be purchased at that time.

Please note, due to the popularity and demand of this event, we are unable to permit outside items to be brought to the event for autographs.

Past attendees have included, Ben Roethlisberger, Heath Miller, Troy Polamalu and many more! This is an amazing chance to meet, interact and obtain autographs from your Pittsburgh Steelers!

For more information, please contact Sarah Steele at 412.321.4422 or [email protected].

Photos:

View photos from past year’s 65 Roses events HERE.

Brett’s teammates are always great about supporting the event, so there are always many players in attendance.

So, come on out and meet up with Brett and his teammates, add to your autograph collection and support a great cause!

Black and Gold Fashion Show:

Antonio Brown and Lawrence Timmons will host the event this year, which will be held on October 11 in the East Club at Heinz Field. Click HERE for more information.

Bid for Hope:

Heath and Katie Miller will be hosting Bid for Hope again this year. Details on their great event can be found on the right side of this page under the Keisel Kam photo.

Thank you to Ryan, Diana Napper, and Sarah Steele for assisting with the event information!

October 4, 2013

FAN FRIDAY

From Whitney Smith:

Ok, I wanna brag on Brett Keisel for a second. My mom and I were talking about the Pens today and it came up. Several years back, I had a friend deployed to Iraq during Christmas. I think his biggest disappointment was missing the whole NFL season. So, for Christmas, I sent a letter to the Steelers, told them the situation, and a few weeks later, I had a picture of the team signed by Brett.

I put it in Jeff’s Christmas box and mailed it overseas. He was so excited. He still talks about it.

A couple months later, I was in Pittsburgh visiting my sister at the University of Pitt. Me, her, and one of her friends went to the Hines Ward show and I was so tickled to know Brett would be appearing that night. So, as we were all leaving, I saw Brett putting the baby stroller in his vehicle while his wife and baby were getting loaded up. I approached him with, “Excuse me, Brett?” He turned around, walked over to me, and shook my hand.

As I recounted Jeff’s story, he held onto my hand and just listened. When I finished, I thanked him for making his Christmas, and he said, “Please tell HIM thank you.”

I was blown away at his compassion and how down to earth he was. We are diehard Steelers fans… grew up that way and always will be. My dad was impressed with the talent Keisel had way before he was ever noticed by commentators during games on TV, but after that day, my whole family has been Keisel fans!! I wear my #99 jersey for every game. Love from Florida, sir!!

We wish Jeff well and would like to thank him for all he does for us. Thanks to Whitney for sharing her story!

Die-hard Steelers fan:

My name is Kaitlyn King. I saw where the page had a picture with a story of a fan. After seeing this I had to message you about the BIGGEST Steelers fan I know.

His whole basement is decked out in Steelers colors and memorabilia. It even has motion sensors to detect if someone is breaking in or not suppose to be in there!

He has many signed items and expensive items too! His name is Sonny Lewis, born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA. He recently came home from Afghanistan after a long period of time due to his job. Even overseas he was posting pictures with his Terrible Towel.

He is my chosen uncle, meaning he isn’t related to me, but he is that long lost relative to me. I love him dearly, and I know it would tickle him to have you post on your page about him. I thank you for your time in reading this. GO STEELERS!! Sonny Lewis is in the middle of the photo, and his two sons Dominic and Steele. Yes, he named his son after the Steelers!

Now, that’s a man cave! And, Dominic and Steele look ready to join the Steelers D line in a few years!

Thanks to Sonny and his family for their support!

Newest addition to Steeler and Da Beard Nation…

My son and daughter-in-law live in Knoxville, TN and are huge Steeler and Brett Keisel fans.

Attached is a picture of the latest addition to their family, a son born on September 10, 2013, named Keisel Joseph Allan. — Jill Allan

What an adorable photo! It’s great having another member of Steeler and Da Beard Nation!

If you do not see your fan story here yet, don’t worry! We will do another post soon. Thanks to all who sent their stories and photos!

 

September 30, 2013

HAVE TO FIND THE SOLUTION

When you start to lose you have to find a solution. If the solution isn’t the X’s & O’s it has to be the people. Obviously, what we’ve done around here with this regime of coaches has been successful so, obviously, it’s not what they’re teaching. It’s not the way we’re preparing because that is proven that it works.

“So clearly it’s the 11 people on the field at certain times that aren’t doing what they’re supposed to do, and we understand that. I’ve been in the NFL long enough to know that Mondays after losses is the time when things change. If we want to keep this same group in the locker room, if we want to see these same faces, we have to do something better.” —Ryan Clark

It’s tough to see the team struggling, but each and every one of the players will work to get better.

From Ulish Carter:

The problems on defense will be corrected because Dick LeBeau is the best defensive mind in football. But it will take time to blend in the young new players, with the young veterans. Remember, the only four players with any kind of age on them are Troy Polamalu, Ryan Clark, Ike Taylor and Brett Keisel who are all playing solid football.

The team have a bye this week, and then they will face the New York Jets on October 13.

Keisel thanks Steeler Nation:

I want to say thank you to all of Steeler Nation and Da Beard Nation for your support in London!

 

September 27, 2013

DA BRITISH WELCOME DA BEARD

My British accent is coming along! Alright then…carry on. — Keisel

The Steelers are in London for a game against the Minnesota Vikings at Wembley Stadium on Sunday. Traveling overseas is certainly not a normal thing for the Steelers, but they are treating this game as any other.

From Teresa Varley,

The sights will be plentiful, landmarks that are on the top of the list for any tourist coming to London. From Big Ben to Westminster Abbey, the London Eye to London Bridge, and even Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London. No tourist goes home without seeing at least a few of these historic treasures.

Steelers’ players, however, aren’t likely to see much of anything unless it’s on the bus ride to and from practice or the game at Wembley Stadium. Because one thing the Steelers, who departed for London on Thursday evening, aren’t going to be this weekend is tourists. They are going for one reason and one reason only, to play the Minnesota Vikings.

“We have to win a game and we are hoping our trip to London will bring us that win,” said defensive end Brett Keisel. “We are approaching this like a normal week, but it’s going to be different and everyone knows it’s going to be different. We just have to focus on winning the game, even though we are going across the water. “I think everyone is aware of the importance of getting a win, but I will definitely be in guy’s ears.”

Brett spoke to the media earlier today about the lack of turnovers on defense:

It’s been tough. Turnovers have been a huge focus point for us. We need to get them.’

Tweet of the day:

Brett Keisel looks more like a viking than most of the Vikings!–@TMFootballUK

Photos: Visit the 2013 Season Photo Gallery for a few photos from London.

 

September 25, 2013

DA HUNT WITH DA BEARD

2013 HUNT WITH THE BLACK & GOLD CONTEST:

Nine lucky winners and their guests will get the opportunity to hunt with Da Beard and other Pittsburgh players!

The winners will receive an invitation to the 2013 Hunt with the Black & Gold, which includes lunch with the players in a private setting, a once in a lifetime opportunity to shoot and trap with a member of the team, guides, a dog, stocked birds, and also an autograph session.

Brett is trying to recruit Ben Roethlisberger to attend..“I would like Ben to come. Ben’s a good hunter, he’s come a long way, my man Benjamin.” Brett also hinted that Lawrence Timmons may join him.

How to register:

Visit any participating Northwest Savings Bank in the PA. area, and also many Gander Mountain locations have registration forms.

Rules:

Please take some time to read the rules for the contest HERE.

You MUST be at least 18 years of age to enter.

Registration will end on November 1, 2013. The hunt will be held on November 19, 2013.

Listen to Brett’s interview with WDVE about the contest, about Ben Roethlisberger’s hunting skills and the Steelers upcoming journey to London, HERE.

 

September 23, 2013

“WE DIDN’T MAKE ENOUGH PLAYS DOWN THE STRETCH”

The Steelers lost to the Chicago Bears by a score of 40-23

“It just wasn’t enough We didn’t make enough plays down the stretch. When we really needed a stop, we didn’t do it.”–Keisel, from his Post-game interview.

From Bob Labriola, Steelers.com:

The Steelers’ defensive performance was somewhat typical of what the unit has offered throughout this young season. Stingy at times, decent pressure on the passer at times, tight coverage at times, stout against the run at times. But the Bears’ offense also made enough plays at critical moments to supplement the defensive touchdowns to produce enough points to stay undefeated.

Read more HERE.

From Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette:

Five turnovers, two of them returned for touchdowns, doomed the Steelers to a 40-23 loss to the Chicago Bears.

Despite those turnovers, they stormed back in the second half from three touchdowns behind to within four points early in the fourth quarter.

Read more from Mr. Bouchette HERE.

As of right now, we have way too many turnovers and it goes both ways. We’ve got to find ways to get the ball. That’s what great defenses do.”–Keisel

Positives from the game:

Following the Bears final touchdown, when the game was out of reach for the Steelers, Troy Polamalu dove to block the extra point. Instead of just letting the Bears score the extra point since his team was on their way to a loss, #43 never gave up on making a play.

Ben Roethlisberger didn’t throw the towel in after the team was down by three touchdowns. He led them to within four points in the second half.

Keisel had a sack on Cutler for a loss of yardage and four tackles on the night.

“The guys really fought hard. They could have easily thrown in the towel early on and said, “here we go again’, but we didn’t. We fought..just couldn’t do enough to get back in it. We’re gonna come to work and continue to try and fix things…continue to figure out a way to get a win.”–Brett, talking about the positives he will take from the loss.

London Time:

The team travels to London this week to face the 0-3 Minnesota Vikings on Sunday.

 

September 19, 2013

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRETT

Thank you for all the birthday love!–Keisel

Today is Brett’s birthday and we appreciate all the tweets, Facebook messages and emails wishing him a Happy Birthday.

A few of the messages we received:

35 and still prime. Have a great night and weekend my friend.–Jim Wexell

Happy Birthday brother Keisel! #Virgos Baby! Hope your blessed to see many more!–Rob Golden

Happy Birthday Wishes going out to Brett Keisel!–Tammy Devine Palmer

Have a nice birthday. Best wishes from Mexico City.–Victor

Happy Birthday from another September 19 b-day & lifetime Steeler fan. Wishing Joy. Peace. Love in coming year!–Barbara Leah

Happy B-Day,brother! Does “Da Beard” have his own seperate birthday?!!? —Dennis Elliott DeLeo

From 1 BK 2 another, Happy Birthday!–Bernie Krell

Brett, have a great day and season. Thank you so much for being so awesome to fans through your charity work and website. We love getting to know you!–Sharon Newbury

Brett, thank you for all you do for the team and community. Your are an amazing individual and I’ve enjoyed learning more about all the work you do on your social media pages and website. Have a nice bday! —Derek Ismon

Keisel joined Spencer Linton and Jarom Jordan, of BYU Sports Nation today to discuss various topics.

Listen to Brett’s favorite moment from BYU, fond memories of Coach Edwards, how closely he follows Cougar Football, why he grew Da Beard and who gets more attention…Da Beard or Da Hair (Troy Polamalu)?

Also, the guys read a few of their favorite “beard” tweets, so find out if your tweet made it on air!

Listen to the interview here.

If you are attending the game Sunday night…

Be sure to check out this Additional Parking and Traffic Information.

 

September 17, 2013

100TH CAREER START

The game against the Bengals last night was Keisel’s 100th career start during the regular season.

While it would have been better to have such a special moment punctuated with a win, it is still a great accomplishment to have 100 career starts with the same team.

Congratulations #99!

Loss number 2 doesn’t hurt any less than loss number 1, but there were some positives.

The Steelers had to win one of the biggest matchups to have a chance against the Bengals, and they did: Taylor held Bengals WR A.J. Green to just six catches for 41 yards, even though he was targeted 14 times by quarterback Andy Dalton. Green was coming off a performance in which he caught nine passes for 162 yards and two TDs against the Bears’ Pro Bowl cornerback, Charles Tillman. But Taylor, as he always seems to do, kept Green in check, not allowing a catch longer than 10 yards and also being credited with a pass defensed.(From Gerry Dulac, PPG).

Keisel had a strong game, knocking down a pass in the middle of the fourth quarter to prevent what looked like would have been an inevitable touchdown.

From Jim Wexell:

The old guys on defense are still playing with fire. My game ball went to Taylor, with Woodley and Brett Keisel close runners-up.

From Bob Labriola, Steelers.com:

Special teams got off to a strong start and completed a quality first half. Felix Jones returned the opening kickoff 34 yards, and Antonio Brown returned the Bengals’ first punt 40 yards.

The Bengals faced a third-and-10 from the Steelers’ 23-yard line with Andy Dalton in the shotgun. At the snap, Troy Polamalu attacked the line of scrimmage and attracted two Bengals offensive linemen, which allowed a free path for Lawrence Timmons who hurried Dalton into the incomplete pass that preceded a Bengals field goal and a 10-3 margin.

Ben Roethlisberger showed nice awareness on a first-down running play to Felix Jones midway through the first period. With two Bengals defenders in the backfield cleanly and prepared to dump Felix Jones for a loss, Roethlisberger pulled the ball out and ran it himself around the right side for a 6-yard gain.

“Nobody in the NFL plays like Ben does, how he gets out of sticky situations and makes something out of nothing!” — Keisel, from his pre-game interview.

The Steelers will be on in prime time again as they face the Chicago Bears on Sunday Night Football on September 22.

The game is at 8:30 p.m. (EST) on NBC.

Game photos: Visit the 2013 Season Photo Gallery for a few game photos.

We would also like to send our thoughts and prayers to all those affected by the tragedy at the Washington Navy Yard yesterday.

 

September 13, 2013

FAN FRIDAY

Mirror images…

We received this image, entitled “Our boys and their favorites” from Roseanna Fonseca.

Armando is number 43, and Luke is number 99. They play for the Murrieta Rams out of Murrieta, California.

Who knows, both Armando and Luke may end up wearin’ those numbers for the Black & Gold in the future!

Thanks for sending the photo Roseanna and best of luck this season to Armando and Luke!

A Terrible Towel wedding…

What happens when a couple, both from Pennsylvania, wed? You get one BIG happy Steeler-lovin’ family!

From Valorie Mullins, Orlando Fl.:

Katelyn and Ryan Miller married in Orlando, FL.

The Groom’s family comes from New Castle, PA.

The Bride’s family hails from Pittsburgh, PA.

Both families have been Steeler’s fans for generations as you can see from the picture.

When the families joined together at the wedding, we took the photo op to show our merged family’s support for our beloved Steelers.

I thought Brett and you would get a kick out of the pic from the reception! Best wishes to Brett on a successful season and GO STEELERS!!!!

 

September 10, 2013

HEROES AT HEINZ FIELD

My husband and I got to meet Brett at the Heroes at Heinz event tonight at Heinz Field. What an honor to meet this awesome football player. My husband was overjoyed at the love him and the other Veterans got from not only Brett but the other Steelers. To top it off Brett wrote a nice message and signed his jersey! Go Steelers!– Rachael Schwerin

Tuesday evening, 75 military veterans took part in “Heroes at Heinz Field”, an event annually hosted by the Steelers and VA Healthcare VISN 4 to honor veterans who served in Iraq or Afghanistan who are now adjusting to civilian life.

Brett took part in the event, along with teammates Ike Taylor, Heath Miller, Cortez Allen, Sean Spence, Zoltan Mesko, Mike Adams, David DeCastro, Bruce Gradkowski, Greg Warren and Jason Worilds.

From the Steelers:

“These guys are our heroes, our country’s heroes,” said Keisel, who has had numerous family members serve in the military. “They put everything on the line for our freedoms and rights, everything we enjoy in this great country we live in. It’s a great honor for us and a small thing we can do to say thank you.

“Growing up I was taught to appreciate the sacrifice they make. I don’t think people understand the magnitude of it sometimes. But when you come here and meet some of these guys that have been wounded, it really hits home and makes you appreciate it.”

To view some photos from the event, click HERE.

 

September 8, 2013

“VERY DISAPPOINTING…”

Very disappointing. You want to win at home…anytime you step out there. So, it’s disappointing, but hopefully this team can bounce back and show some fight. —Keisel, from his Post Game interview.

Well, the season did not begin the way we wanted it to, as the Steelers lost to the Titans by a score of 16-9.

The loss itself was tough, but even worse news came when Coach Tomlin announced that Maurkice Pouncey and Larry Foote would both need surgery.

Anytime you lose guys that are key contributors to your game, it’s frustrating, but that’s the business we’re in. One man’s misery is another man’s opportunity and someone’s gotta step up.–Brett, talking about the injuries and what the team needs to do to overcome them.

Stats: Brett had six tackles during the game.

Read more on the game HERE.

Game photos:

Visit the 2013 Season Photo Gallery for a few game photos.

The Steelers will play again on September 16 (Monday Night Football) against the Cincinnati Bengals.

So far, all AFC North teams are 0-1.

 

September 6, 2013

FAN FRIDAY

Happy retirement to MSgt William “Buzz” Buzinski:

Brett received the following email from MSgt William “Buzz” Buzinski, Air Force One Security:

“I am writing you to see if this request would be possible. I can’t imagine the number of request you guys receive everyday. I am MSgt William “Buzz’ Buzinski and I currently fly on Air Force One.

I was unfortunate to miss Da Beard and others as they visited our hangar for a tour of my aircraft as I was on my way to Antigua with my wife that same day. I tried my best to rearrange my schedule but it didn’t work out.

I have been flying on AF1 for the past 13 years and have carried many Steelers Jerseys and Terrible Towels during the football season so I could harass the Patriot and other fans I fly with.

I am a die hard Steeler fan and I am retiring from the Air Force on 1 August with a ceremony on 14 June. I am inquiring to see if there was anyway to get an autographed Terrible Towel from Da Beard. I have plenty and could mail one to you if this request can be accomplished. I truly wish I could have had the chance to meet him and the others but thank them for the inspiration throughout the years.

Brett was honored to receive Mr. Buzinski’s request and more than happy to sign his item.

I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping me out with my request. The FedEx guy delivered the box to my house this morning and I am walking around the house with a huge “retirement” happy smile. I truly do want to thank you for all you do and your help.

I hope to make it to Pittsburgh for a game this season. My friend, from Aliquippa, and I usually go to one game a year together since her and my birthdays are two days apart. With all of the traveling I endured over the past 14 years it was hard to plan so I am hoping to make it up this year.

I hope you have a great week and I will be twirling the towel all season!– William, after receiving his retirement gift-a Da Beard signed Terrible Towel.

Thanks for all you have have done for our country MSgt William “Buzz” Buzinski! Enjoy your retirement and thanks for sending the photos! The first photo is with MSgt Buzinski and President Obama, and the second is MSgt Buzinski with his father, retired Sergeant Major, along with the towels, hat and signed football from when the Steelers visited the Air Force One Complex Ib 2008.

Jakob Fries attended his first Steelers game against the Panthers…

And, even though his team lost, he came home with a prized item.

From his mother, Bobbi Fries:

My husband & I took our 12 year old son to his very first Steelers game tonight, and I just wanted to drop a line to say thank you to Da Beard for throwing us his shoes!

How exciting!!! We are over the moon about our special souvenir!

I also want to take a second to say that as a mom of a young man, I’m thankful that we can use Brett Keisel as an example of someone that is using his talent and fame to create positivity. Best of luck to you always! Thanks again!

Thank you to the Fries for sending a photo of Jakob with the shoes. We really love the Da Beard Gear shirt he’s wearing!

 

September 4, 2013

SMASH MOUTH…ARM WRESTLING??

I could SMASH him in arm wrestling!–Keisel, talking about arm wrestling with James Harrison.

Brett was a guest on the SVP & Russillo Show today. He chats about the upcoming season, moving past the Ravens Super Bowl, James Harrison on Hard Knocks and more.

He also had a prediction about who would win between him and Harrison in an arm wrestling match.

If you missed the interview, don’t worry! We have ya covered. Click HERE to listen.

It was great to see Scott Van Pelt sporting a Da Beard Nation t-shirt…and a beard!

You can purchase the same shirt, and check out all of Brett’s official Da Beard Gear by clicking the STORE link at the top of this page.

 

September 3, 2013

QUOTE THE KEIS

Jim, Wexell, SteelCityInsider.Net, held a “Quote the Keis” Q & A interview with Brett recently. They chatted about the upcoming season and team chemistry.

From the interview:

Q: Has there been a different approach by Tomlin and the coaches this off-season?

BK: “I think it’s more just attention to the little things, like around the locker room, like making sure we’re all in meetings early. No one’s dragging into meetings, no one’s dragging out to practice. We just want a sense of urgency with things and attention to detail; just a pro’s perspective, really. When you’re around here, in the locker room, be a pro in everything you do, whether that’s film study or walk-through or whatever. Don’t let anything get downgraded because maybe you’re not at full speed or something like that. Just focus and pay attention to everything.”

Q: Did you agree with the talk about dissension last year?

BK: “No. (pause) No. (pause) No, I think when you lose close games, games we’re used to winning, people start asking ‘What’s going on?’ But I never felt like that our locker room was divided or anything like that. I’ve always felt that’s been a strong suit of ours, the locker room, the brotherhood. I’ll continue to stick with that.”

Q: It seemed as if the coaches shipped out some guys with losing personalities, or represented losing in some way, and brought in some rookies — and veterans — with enthusiastic and winning personalities. Do you agree?

BK: “Well, I just think the biggest thing everything in here needs to have is a focus on not ‘What do we need to do to make me better?’ But rather, ‘What do I need to do to make the team better?’ To put the team first. If we can do that collectively, then we’ll be a good team.”

Thank you to Mr. Wexell for sharing his interview with us. Stop by his website to keep up with the latest Steelers news!

Interview with 105.9 The X:

Listen to Brett’s’ interview with HERE.

 

August 31, 2013

HANGIN’ WITH SOME NEW FRIENDS

Awesome time at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium! Thanks to everyone who came out!–Keisel

Brett and Heath Miller hosted a Steelers pep rally-ZOO style at the Pittsburgh Zoo today. They hung out with Steeler Nation and made some new friends, of the elephant variety.

From Steelers.com:

You would be hard pressed to find many people in Pittsburgh that make Brett Keisel and Heath Miller look small, but that was the case on Saturday when they met Tasha, an African Bush elephant, and the other elephants at the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium on Saturday.

Tasha weighs in at 8,695 pounds, which according to Tracy Gray, public/media manager at the zoo, that’s more than the entire Steelers defense weighs. The elephants took part in the zoo’s Steelers Pep Rally, showing off their team pride by waving a Terrible Towel and sporting black and gold.

Read the entire article from Teresa Varley, and view some photos HERE.

Pep rally photos:

Click HERE for a few more photos from the fun day at the zoo!

Video:

Watch a quick video with Brett and Heath as they meet Tasha HERE.

Thanks so much to the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium for holding the pep rally, and of course thanks to Tasha and all the animals who came out to greet the guys and Steeler Nation with their Terrible Towels!

 

August 30, 2013

END OF PRESEASON 2013

The Steelers ended preseason play with a loss to the Carolina Panthers. Most of the starters did not play at all, as this was a game for rookies and back-ups to prove themselves one last time.

From Bob Labriola, Steelers.com:

In the “What went right” department: The Steelers reserves put together a goal-line stand early in the second quarter. On second-and-goal from the 1-yard line, Panthers RB Armond Smith was stopped for no gain, and after the play was challenged from the Carolina sideline the ruling was upheld. Then on third-and-goal, Smith again was stoned at the line of scrimmage, and the Panthers settled for a field goal.

In the “what went wrong” department: With no Brett Keisel or Ike Taylor or Troy Polamalu or Ryan Clark or Larry Foote or Lawrence Timmons or LaMarr Woodley playing for the Steelers, the Panthers took the opening kickoff and marched 80 yards in six plays – all completed passes by Derek Anderson – to take a 7-0 lead three minutes into the game.

The Steelers will start regular season play on September 8 against the Tennessee Titans. The game begins at 1:00 p.m.

 

August 29, 2013

A VETERAN’S ADVICE TO PLAYERS ON THE BUBBLE

OTA’s, Mini Camp, & Training Camp. All that work…It all comes down to tonight for these young men. Go get it!–Keisel

From Scott Brown, ESPN.com:

Brett Keisel is in his 12th NFL season, and is as established as they come. The veteran defensive end has won a pair of Super Bowl rings, has made a Pro Bowl, and he will likely be a team captain for the second year in a row.

That doesn’t mean he can’t empathize with the players in the Steelers’ locker room who find themselves squarely on the cut line.

“My first two games I was pathetic,” Keisel recalled. “I was putting too much pressure on myself. When I just finally relaxed and realized that I’m playing football, I’ve been doing this my whole life.”

Keisel’s advice to the players whose cleats he once wore?

“Just go out there and give it great effort because that’s what the coaches want to see,” he said. “They know you’re going to mess up. They know you’re not going to be perfect. But if you’re out there going 100 percent, plays are going to fall to you and that’s what they want to see.”

Brett goes on to talk about how important it is for the players on the bubble to make themselves known through special teams play, which worked well for him.

Read the entire article HERE.

 

August 24, 2013

DA BEARD AND DA HAIR DOIN’ WORK

The overtime loss to the Kansas City Chiefs was tough, but there were positives to take from the loss.

Lost in the shuffle of the preseason is the fact that the run defense for the first unit has been outstanding. Saturday night, it bottled up Jamal Charles for 10 yards on 7 carries. And that total included an 11-yard run.– (From Dale Lolley, SteelCityInsider.Net.

Da Beard and Da Hair:

The Steelers No. 1 defense played the first series of the second half and came out of it with a takeaway. Brett Keisel forced a fumble by Kansas City RB Knile Davis, and Troy Polamalu recovered at the Pittsburgh 36-yard line. That gave the Steelers seven takeaways in their three preseason games.–Bob Labriola, Steelers.com.

Game photos:

Click HERE for game photos.

Congrats…

To Ben Roethlisberger on being named Steelers Digest Player of the Week! Big Ben Roethlisberger completed 13-of-19 for 166 yards with one touchdown and no interceptions for a passer rating of 113.0.

Whatever it takes:

Today’s news photo is of Brett with Tyler Hallsey (wearing his Da Beard Gear hat).

“Brett, thanks for making Tyler’s dream come true. You’re the best!”–Chris Hallsey, Tyler’s dad (@hllz_32), via Twitter.

Brett had the chance to meet up with Tyler Hallsey and his family before the game last night.

On February 8, 2013 Tyler was diagnosed with Pontine Glioma which is a tumor surrounding the brain stem. Not something you would add to your list of good things, but then again, it has never met anyone like Tyler.

Tyler has vowed to do “Whatever it takes” to send Pontine Glioma packing!

You can keep up with him on Facebook.

We wish you well Tyler in your battle to do WHATEVER IT TAKES! Steeler Nation is rooting for you!

Thank you to Merril Hoge for sharing the photo via Twitter:

“Brett Keisel taking time with Tyler who is fighting cancer before tonight’s game! Brett… Thank you!”–@MerrilHoge

 

August 23, 2013

FAN FRIDAY

Thank you Steeler Nation for your support during training camp.Brett, following his 12th training camp with the Steelers.

We want to say thank you to the fans who attended camp and sent photos, messages and well wishes.

Thanks also to the fans at home, who kept up with training camp via this site and social media.

And, a BIG thanks to the awesome staff at Saint Vincent College who have taken care of Brett for the last TWELVE years!

The photos and messages we received were so amazing, so please take time to stop by the Training Camp Gallery to check them out.

Today’s news photo was sent by Jennifer Smith.

Tuggin’ on Da Beard always brings good luck!

Brett with his buddy Logan Hunter:

My husband works at St.Vincent- we are friends with managers and trainers, so we take our son, Logan, who has Down Syndrome, up to camp every year.

Due to his DS, he actually has no idea the greatness he’s surrounded by.

I used to be a massage therapist and worked with many Steelers, as well as the Eagles, and even Arnold Palmer. Logan has been around it all and he’s just as nonchalant as can be.

But, he loves Brett! He has to compare beards every year. I was humbled that Brett even remembered Logan’s name- that’s special to me. He’s a class act. He always takes time for us. Thank you. —Chris Hunter

Thank you to Chris for sharing Logan’s story! Always fun for Brett to see his buddy.

If Da shoe fits..wear it…even if it doesn’t…take it:

The next email is from the DiSabato family, who attended camp, and were lucky to meet the big guy and take away his BIG shoe!

We went to Steelers Training Camp on Saturday, August 17th. On the way in to practice, Brett gave away several shoes.

Our daughter, Dalanie, was one of the lucky ones to receive one. She has not stopped smiling or talking about it since. You have gained a 99 fan for life!! Thank you so much! —The DiSabatos

How adorable is Dalanie with her #99 shoe! There is also a cute photo with her sister, Rowan in the Training Camp Gallery.

Thanks to the DiSabato’s for sharing their story and photos!

New Da Beard merchandise…

New merchandise being worn proud!!–Stacie Michael

Check out the new Da Beard Gear merchandise. The crew has added some great new items, along with their exisiting gear. This is the only official Brett Keisel beard merchandise.

To view other fans, along with Brett and his teammates in the gear, visit the Da Beard Gear World Tour album.

Keisel and Heath Miller have an upcoming appearance on August 31. The details are below in the August 22 news.

 

August 22, 2013

JOIN 99 & 83 FOR A PEP RALLY-ZOO STYLE

From the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium:

Join us on August 31 at the elephant yard along with Pittsburgh Steelers Brett Keisel and Heath Miller for a Steelers Pep Rally, Zoo style!

Watch our elephants show their Steelers pride!

After the pep rally we will raffle off Steeler items. Be at the Zoo’s admission gates by 10:30AM and receive a free raffle ticket for a chance to win autographed Steelers memorabilia.

The pep rally is from 11:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.

Stop by our sea lion training demonstration at 12:30PM to see the sea lions show their black and gold pride too!

This is a great way to get your family ready to start the 2013 Steelers regular season, so we hope to see a lot of Steeler Nation at Da Zoo!

Stop by the site tomorrow for Fan Friday!

 

August 20, 2013

“WE’VE GOT A LOT OR ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT…”

The Steelers lost to the Redkins last night 24-13. The starters played a tad longer than they did in the first preseason game, but the back-ups and rookies saw the majority of playing time.

Keisel on the back-up DE’s:

Cam’s (Cam Heyward) had a great camp. Al (Woods) is coming along. (Rookies) Brian (Arnfelt) and Nick (Williams) made some pretty good plays (against the Redskins). They need to continue to work, continue to master the little things that make you a good defensive player.

On the loss:

We’ve got a lot of room for improvement. We can’t out ourselves behind theeight ball and expect to win.

Listen to Brett’s post game interview at Steelers.com.

The next preseason game is on August 24 against the Kansas City Chiefs.

 

August 16, 2013

FAN FRIDAY

We appreciate all the emails, messages and photos being sent by Steeler Nation! We can always count on you to have the best photos and stories!

Many of you may remember back in June (see the June 17th story), when Brett hosted a VIP fishing trip for some lucky fans and children from Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC.

They were treated to a day of fishing, lunch and good times with Da Beard.

We recently heard from the parents of one of the teens who attended the fishing trip, Tyler Skarzenski:

My son Tyler Skarzenski was invited and attended the fishing trip in Pittsburgh, the day after Fathers Day. He was one of the children’s Hospital kids. He had his leg amputated due to an ATV crash 11 months ago.

Anyway, Tyler and my husband enjoyed a nice visit with Brett and his brother during lunch that day, and Brett invited Tyler to a game this season.

We received tickets to the August 24th preseason home game. They were sent to us through Children’s Hospital and we are so very thankful.

What a turn around Tyler has made since his meeting with Brett. He can’t say enough about what a normal great guy he was.

Tyler is now walking in his prosthetic and beginning to be taught how to run again. Just wanted to some how reach out to him to express our gratitude.

Thank you to all involved…we are forever grateful.–Michaeline Skarzenski ( Tyler’s mom).

Learn more about Tyler’s story HERE.

We wish Tyler all the best and are very excited to hear he is doing so well and staying so positive.

Thanks to Tyler and his parents for sharing his story. We know you will have a great time cheering your Steelers on at the game.

You can view a few photos from the fishing event HERE.

The Terrible Towel fits in EVERYWHERE:

We see the Terrible Towel twirling all over Heinz Field, but it also fits in at other times, such as during a Jamaican wedding!

Unfortunately, she wouldn’t let me wear my #99 jersey last week for our wedding in Jamaica, but my wife did let us get some shots with my Terrible Towel while you guys were playing your first pre season game. Big fan, keep up the good work. —Jeremy and Natalie Miles.

Congratulations on your wedding, and thanks so much for sharing your lovely photo!

 

August 15, 2013

“I FEEL GREAT…”

There has been much talk about Keisel possibly being in his final season with the Steelers. It is true he’s in the last year of his contract, but Brett chooses to focus on this season and being a leader among his teammates.

“I’m focused not on my contract or this could be my last year. I’m focused on leading this group of young men back down glory road. I feel great. I feel like as long as I can play and as long as I can carry out my responsibility and lead, I could play longer. But we’ll see what happens.”— Brett, from an article by Jamison Hensley, AFC North Blog.

More from Mr. Hensley:

At 34, Keisel is the oldest starter on the Steelers’ defense. But he hasn’t been showing his age, leading the team with 40 quarterback hurries last season.

“He hustles hard,” linebacker Lawrence Timmons said. “I always see him in the weight room. I don’t feel like age is bothering him right now. He has some type of youth juice. He’s doing real good for us right now.”

You can read the entire article HERE.

D Line has some fun with Seven Springs.

“Thank you Seven Springs for taking care of the D Line today. We all had a BLAST!–Keisel.

Photos:

Check out ourTraining Camp Gallery.

 

August 12, 2013

REPPIN’ 99

Pittsburgh’s Steve Byrne, along with the cast of the television show Sullivan & Son which he stars in, led the Terrible Towel Twirl during the game against the Giants on Saturday.

Mr. Byrne was reppin’ his #99 jersey and tweeted this to Brett after the game:

“A true honor being on the field to root for you and the boys! Have a great season!!!”

Thanks to Steve and the gang from Sullivan & Son! We wish you a great season also.

Before you ask, many fans have emailed the site, and it sounds like Mr. Byrne also regarding having Da Beard or other players on the show. Per Steve: “Wish we could have some Steelers rep’d on the show, it’s just a matter of the NFL letting us have the rights! Working on it.”…so we’ll see.

Also, Mr. Byrne didn’t leave the Pirates out. He was shown in a Pirates jersey also! Great hometown fan!

High praise from Da Beard:

Tyler Sash, a safety with the NYG, received high praise from the bearded one on Saturday night:

From Connor Orr, The Star-Ledger:

Tyler Sash had a pretty good day on Saturday. After recovering a fumble, he got to speak with Steelers defensive end Brett Keisel, the owner of quite possibly the most impressive beard in football.

Keisel told Sash he was impressed.

“After the game I did, I told him that my beard looked up to his beard,” Sash said. “And then I tweeted him that yesterday and he said I had a fine beard myself.”

Read the entire article, and catch a glimpse of Mr. Sash’s beard HERE.

Camp reminder:

The Steelers are off on Tuesday, and resume practice at St. Vincent College on Wednesday, Aug. 14 with an evening practice at 5:25 p.m. Campus and the UPMC Steelers Experience will open at 2 p.m. The Steelers will resume their normal practice time on Thursday, Aug. 15 with a 2:55 practice.

Game photos:

Click HERE for game photos.

Camp photos:

Check out our Training Camp Gallery.

 

August 10, 2013

“BRETT KEISEL, THE AGELESS ONE”

Steelers 13, Giants 18

“We’re going to have to sit and chew on that for a while until we play again.”— Keisel, referring to the gap before the next preseason game Aug. 19 at Washington.

The Steelers kicked off their 2013 preseason against the New York Giants. As expected, the starters did not stay in the game long.

Brett and Ben Roethlisberger were the team captains.

Brett had one tackle in the short time he was in the game, chasing a play all the way down the field.

No wonder the announcers referred to him as the “Ageless Wonder.”

Chief Meteorologist for KDKA and host for Steelers KidZone show, Jeff Verszyla, spoke with Brett from the sidelines.

When asked how Jarvis Jones was doing:

He’s made some plays at training camp that make you go wow!”

When asked about this year’s team:

“We are in the process of rebuilding. It was a frustrating year last season. We understand we have a good football team… we trust each other we know what we are capable of.”

And, on Da Beard:

“Da Beard’s gonna be bigger and badder than ever.”

Favorite fan tweet:

New NFL rule: If Brett Keisel’s beard (Da Beard) catches the coin flip in the air, the Steelers automatically win the toss.”— Steve Giglio (@stevegiglio.)

We agree Steve!

Read Coach Tomlin’s post game comments HERE.

Read more on the game from Bob Labriola HERE.

Game photos:

Click HERE for game photos.

There are not many photos of #99 out there, as he did not play long. If I locate more, I’ll post them later.

It was great seeing Steve Byrne, of TBS’s Sullivan & Son reppin’ #99 at the game!

 

August 9, 2013

HERE WE GO STEELERS, HERE WE GO…

We get excited when we hear the familiar chant of “Here we go Steelers, Here we go.”

The same goes for Brooke McDonough, a die hard Steelers fan from PA., who was transplanted to Maryland… within a half hour from Baltimore.

When Brooke’s daughter, Myla came home from daycare cheering for the Ravens (EEK), Brooke knew she needed to take action.

“We had a great experience for our daughter’s first visit to training camp! I am from Scottdale, PA and was born and raised a Steelers fan but I now live in Maryland within a half hour from Baltimore.

My daughter Myla, only 2 1/2, came home from daycare cheering for the Ravens and I knew it was time to come back and visit camp.

We were waiting for autographs but she was happy with all the high fives instead. When Brett walked by, he not only gave her a high five, but came back and squeezed her face a little.

She thought that was the funniest thing and hasn’t stopped singing “Here We Go Steelers” since. Even though she was so little she was able to participate in most of the Steelers Experience events and even told me that she was at practice. It was great coming home and being able to share my childhood memories with her.She truly enjoyed her experience and now knows Brett Keisel by name.”– Brooke McDonough

Whew, thanks to #99 we recruited another member to Steeler Nation! Hearing “Here we Go Steelers” had to be music to Brooke’s ears!

Thanks to Brooke and Myla for sharing their story.

From Jim Wexell, SteelCityInsider.net:

Mr. Wexell posted a Q & A with 99…here are some highlights:

Q: Talk about your camp experience so far.

BK: My camp experience has been fabulous. We’ve had phenomenal weather here in, as the locals call it, Lay-trobe.

Q: You’re not willing to concede this is your last season, are you?

BK: No. I’m not. The only thing I said is it’s the last year on my contract. I’m excited about this year. We’ll see what happens after.

Q: But, does it make you appreciate things even more?

BK: Yeah, I walk down the steps and smell the flowers a little bit more,listen to the birds chirp. (Pause) Not really. I’m just enjoying it. I’m enjoying being able to do this for 12 years, and enjoying helping out these young guys, enjoying being a leader, and enjoying still having the opportunity to play, and how lucky we have it to be able to go out and do this every day.

Q: Do you look at your backup, Cameron Heyward, and say, ‘Hey, there’s a hungry and good player?’

BK: Very. Yeah, Cam’s having a very good camp. I’m proud of him. You know, I told him coming into this camp he needed to work hard and be ready to go. They brought him in here to play and we need him to play this year. We need him to play great. Usually when that third year comes you see more consistency, and we’re seeing that from Cam now.

You can read the entire article HERE.

Mr. Wexell runs a great Steelers news site, so if you are not a subscriber, stop by and check it out.

From Gregg Rosenthal, NFL.com:

Longtime Pittsburgh Steelers defensive guru Dick LeBeau is asking his defensive ends to rush the passer on the edge more than before.

“We definitely need to get more pressure up front,” Brett Keisel said Tuesday, via the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. “There’s been an emphasis more on (ends) getting on the edge rather than just pushing the pocket, getting on the edge and trying to make something happen.”

This is a dramatic change in philosophy for LeBeau from recent seasons. The Steelers traditionally have been a 3-4 team that asks their defensive ends to occupy blockers, do the dirty work and let the outside linebackers grab the glory. The change perhaps is a recognition that the Steelers have more questions at outside linebacker than usual and solid depth at defensive end.

We’ve kind of changed our techniques (from) years past until now,” said Keisel, who led the Steelers by a wide margin with 41 pressures in 2012. “In years past, when we had James (Harrison) and LaMarr (Woodley), it was mostly just push the pocket, try to collapse the pocket, make the quarterback flush and those guys would be there to clean him up. That’s what we were taught.”

Photos:

Check out ourTraining Camp Gallery.

 

August 7, 2013

NUMBER 44

Dick LeBeau was inducted into the Hall of Fame on August 7, 2010.

The respect the Steelers organization and players have for Coach LeBeau was clearly evident in Canton that night. The Steelers shut down training camp and traveled by bus to Canton to watch their coach and friend inducted in to the NFL Hall of Fame. Many defensive players, including Brett, wore LeBeau’s jersey to honor him.

If you missed Coach LeBeau’s speech, you can click here to watch it. Trust me, it was a genuine from-the-heart speech. He found a way to encompass his whole career, mentioning so many of his teammates, players and coaches. It is easy to understand why his players are so unselfish..they learned it from their coach. A truly classy man.

A few highlights:

Man, this really is a great day to be alive (smiling). Here we are. I’d like to thank my mom and dad for creating the family environment that led an ornery young guy grow up and maybe someday allowed to have a weekend happen for him like is happening right now. Thank you, mom and dad.

I’m being inducted as a player. Believe me, that makes me most proud. I did that for 14 years. But for the last 38 years, I’ve been a football coach. So to ask me to talk more in two minutes and not talk about my guys over here, tell you right now, it ain’t gonna happen.

I coached a lot of great players. I’m not going to get into that. Guys ask me, Coach, what’s the perfect 3-4? Who would be the very ideal people at each position? I said, Well, really, truthfully, you start with Casey Hampton, Aaron Smith, and Brett Keisel on the defensive line. Really, seriously. Not only the great players, they’re totally unselfish. In the 3-4 your linemen have to be a little unselfish because you know everybody is going to talk about the linebackers and the safeties anyhow all day.

As far as my playing ability, I was known as the guy who was just going to come to work every day, I was going to play hard every day. Might not always play good every play, but I was going to play the next play as hard. I learned that from London, Ohio, a small town about two hours from where we’re standing. Honesty and hard work, that’s about all they value down there. It sure has stood me in good stead.

I’ll leave you with one thing. Life is for living, folks. Don’t let a number be anything other than a number. Don’t let somebody tell you that you’re too old to do this or too old to do that. Stay in life. Life is a gift. It’s a joy. Don’t drop out of it. Don’t let somebody else tell you and don’t let your mind tell you.

If I would have gotten out of my life’s work at 65 or 67, when they say is the age of retirement, here is what I would have missed, folks. I would have missed not one but two World Championship football teams that I got to be a part of. That’s these guys over here. I got to be a part of a No. 1 defense that statistically had the lowest numbers in the last 35 or 40 years. I had my number retired from my high school. Had a building named after me in my hometown. I made the Detroit Lions all 75 year team. I was accepted into the Ohio State University Athletic Hall of Fame. Now tonight I guess when I sit down, get off this speaking, which I’m gonna do, I’ll be in the NFL Hall of Fame.

My mother always said, Onward and upward, age is just a number. God love y’all. Thank you.

Click the link above to listen to his entire speech…it was one to remember!

Photos:

Check out ourTraining Camp Gallery.

We’ll have training camp news and more photos tomorrow!

 

August 5, 2013- Evening update

THE NEW STEEL CURTAIN

Brett talked to the media today about how proud he was to be a member of what is being called the new Steel Curtain.

From Steelers.com:

Brett Keisel headed in to lunch on Monday sporting a “Steel Curtain” t-shirt. It wasn’t a throwback from the ‘70s when the Steelers’ defensive line was known as that. Instead, it was new, in reference to the current line, something that makes Keisel proud.

“It’s an honor to play on a defense that some consider the new Steel Curtain,” said Keisel. “We’re trying to be like those guys.”

Take this bet:

From an interview today: Brett Keisel said today if he was a betting man, he’d bet on 43. Polamalu looking very good at camp.

Photos:

Check out ourTraining Camp Gallery.

 

August 5, 2013

STEELERS HEAR FROM AN AMERICAN HERO

From Steelers.com:

Noah Galloway, who has overcome losing his arm and leg when an IED exploded while in Iraq in the United States Army, was at training camp the last few days and spoke to the Steelers on Saturday night at the team meeting.

What an inspiration Noah Galloway is! Thank you for sharing your story with our team.Brett

Awesome meeting you. I look forward to catching my beard up to yours. Now you just need a kilt.Noah Galloway

Noah said he has become a new diehard Steelers fan! We welcome him to Steeler Nation!

You can read more on Mr. Galloway, and his friendship with Ben Roethlisberger HERE.

 

August 4, 2013

A VERY SPECIAL STEELERS FAN

We received a very special email from Melissa Kalp this past week. Her beautiful daughter, Hannah had the pleasure of meeting Brett, Casey Hampton and Aaron Smith a few years ago during training camp. Fans getting to meet their favorite players is aways a special thing, but for Hannah and Melissa, the timing could not have been better.

Hannah had been diagnosed with leukemia in August of 2009. As many of you know, Aaron Smith’s son battled leukemia also, so meeting another parent who had been through what Melissa was going through really helped.

I’m Melissa, Hannah’s mom, and I work at the Latrobe Walmart. Every year I take Hannah and we go look for Steelers coming in to buy supplies.

We got lucky that year and saw Brett, Aaron, and Casey! She was so excited! I had her mask on and that’s when Aaron and Brett started talking. We talked for a good half hour and felt guilty taking up their time but it felt good to finally talk about Hannah’s leukemia and actually have that person understand what I’m talking about.

Hannah and I only missed one “Walmart” trip and she was in the hospital but she got Troy and his wife to rub her feet. So she was content.

She will mark two years cancer free on December first and we celebrate her diagnose day August 15. She was first diagnosed 8/15/2009.

She is a die hard Pittsburgh fan- football, hockey and baseball. She loves to cheer them on.

Thanks again for responding, I really didn’t think anyone would respond. There’s always so much negative but I always wanted to thank the team in helping my baby get through her journey. She couldn’t wait to get better to go home and watch her “boys” win a game for her. Good luck this year we will definitely be watching ! Melissa Kalp

Thank you to Melissa and Hannah for sharing their story! We wish Hannah well and are so happy to hear she’s doing better. Thank you for rooting for the Steelers, and please know Steeler Nation is rooting for you!

Photos:

Check out ourTraining Camp Gallery.

 

August 2, 2013

SECOND ANNUAL FREE SIGNING AT DINO’S

Thank you Da Beard Nation and Steelers Nation for stopping by. Nice meeting all of you!Da Beard

It was a packed house at Dino’s Sports Lounge today for Brett’s autograph signing get together.

Brett and his Da Beard Gear crew were thrilled to meet all the amazing fans who were able to stop by and say hello..and grab a FREE autograph!

We hope everyone had a great time and we hope you liked all the new gear.

A big thanks to Dino’s for providing the location for the signing, gear sales and GREAT food!

Social media chatter after the autograph signing:

Thank you Sir .It’s always a pleasure being a foot away from your sweet face.You made my day and I’m sure my nephew’s lifetime for personalizing the football for him.Thank you again and have a safe and strong season. DaBeard Nation will live on forever.Christine Schultz

Thank you Brett for doing this signing. My boys were awestruck and I appreciate it!Marcy Delhunty-Anderson

Thanks for the da beard shirts and autographs! My boys and I loved it!Roni Kiesel

Thank you to Brett and his fun crew for making the signing possible. I have always wanted to take my kids to a signing but most cost way more than we can afford. You made it possible for me to do something wonderful for my kids! We’ll never forget it.–Missy Henderson

A free signing is unheard of these days, well unless you’re a fan of Dabeard! We appreciate this more than you know. Thanks for being so sweet and not rushing everyone. You took time with each of us. Class act all the way!John Metzer

Photos:

We’ve added photos from the event and from camp to the Training Camp Gallery, so be sure to check ’em out.

Brett on WDVE:

Brett met up with the hilarious WDVE Morning Crew at camp. As usual, it was a very entertaining interview.

A few highlights:

The introduction: “#99 in your program..#1 in your facial hair..it’s Brett the Diesel Keisel!!!”

On the Pirates…and how was #99 at baseball:

It’s awesome to watch these guys (Pirates). I threw some heat. I was a pitcher. I think mostly I struck out a lot of kids because I was that much bigger. My parents seriously had to bring my birth certificate to games.

On not having Casey Hampton with the team:

Hamp was one of my great friends on the team. We hung out together all the time. I knew I could alway go into Hamp’s room and find a snack. His favorite: COOKIES-he kept them in a secret spot (at camp).

Da Beard is still around:

I’m going with the shaved head this year to look really psycho. I couldn’t get around to shaving Da Beard.

Brett also talks about why he’s not “inked”, where he stands on his celebration sack dance..and MUCH more!

Listen to the interview HERE.

Stop back this weekend for a very special fan story!

 

August 1, 2013

THEY’RE BAAACCKK…

Brett’s Bearded Beauties returned to camp this past weekend!

Same gals, different t-shirts!

Dressed in their customized “We’re Back! Bigger, Better, Beardier” tee’s… and of course their trademark beards, Brett’s Bearded Beauties invaded the Steelers Women’s Training Camp for the second year in a row. Heads turned as they charged onto the field with their fierce game faces and fluffed up beards.

From Dawn Conley, one of the bearded beauties:

My name is Dawn Conley. I am one of Brett’s Bearded Beauties. I wanted to ask if you could thank Brett from all of us again this year for coming over and taking another picture with us at camp. He really made our day and my mom was so excited that she got to hug him. She’s been a die hard Steeler fan all of her life (all of the bearded beauties are actually) whether they win or lose. It really made her feel special.

Thanks to Dawn, and all her bearded pals, for once again, making the trip to attend the Women’s Camp and to surprise Da Beard!

Photos:

We’ve added more photos to the Training Camp Gallery, so be sure to check ’em out.

Brett checked in with the crew at Steelers.com today:

“Our style of defense is all about consistency, going out and playing consistent week in and week out.”

He discussed the defensive line and his teammates Ziggy Hood and Cam Heyward.

And, of course (while wearing his Pittsburgh Pirates hat) he talked about being excited about how well the Pirates are playing.

Listen to the interview HERE.

The boys are back in town…

Be on the lookout…

The Da Beard Gear crew arrived in Latrobe today, along with LOTS of new merchandise. You’ll find them atDino’s Sports Lounge through August 4. They are normally there from 11 a.m. until the afternoon, when they may leave to watch practice. They return to Dino’s afterwards for the evening..so stop on in and say hello!

Signing information:

Brett and the Da Beard Gear crew want to thank Steeler Nation for their support, so they are holding a FREE autograph signing on Friday, August 2 from 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m. at Dino’s! Yes, we said FREE!

Fans can bring one item (per person) to be signed free by Keisel. Due to the time constraints, Brett will not be able to pose with fans for photographs. He only gets a limited time away from camp, and he wants to ensure as many fans as possible get to have an item signed. We thank you for understanding.

Sorry, NO mail-in items will be accepted for this signing.

 

July 31, 2013

STAIRWAY TO SEVEN, BABY

Brett chatted with Mike Prisuta, WDVE, about his role as “Da Conductor” with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra recently.

On the The Pittsburgh Symphony:

“I’ve become a big fan of the Pittsburgh Symphony. We go probably to 10 shows a year, at least.”

On being a guest conductor:

“The crowd was awesome..I just kinda fed off the crowd. The lead singer was AWESOME! I fed off those guys and had a blast!”

Keisel has a musical background…

“When I was young in church, we would sing in the choir & occasionally they would take some of us up to conduct..so I had a little bit of experience in that area.”

When asked what Led Zeppelin song represented the 2013 Steelers:

“Come on Mike…you know this! Stairway to SEVEN, baby!”

Read more about Brett’s conducting experience in the July 18 news below.

You can listen to his short interview with Mr. Prisuta HERE.

Brett will also be on with the WDVE morning crew later this week from training camp.

Photos:

We’ve added more photos to the Training Camp Gallery, so be sure to check ’em out. They include one of Alex Pollack who wore his #99 Keisel jersey to training camp. No big deal you say..fans wear #99’s jersey to training camp everyday. Well…Alex wore it to the BENGALS training camp! Check out his photo to see the reaction. Also, we think this guy deserves to be followed around on Twitter, don’t you? Who know what he’ll do next! Click his name to reach his Twitter page.

Thanks Alex! And, thank you to all who have sent photos. We love them! If your photos have not been added yet, don’t worry..we’ll get to them.

Training camp news:

The following are a couple great sites which provide daily news:

Steelcityinsider.net

Steelers Depot

Venue change for night practice on August 2:

The Steelers annual Friday Night Lights practice scheduled for Friday, August 2, at Latrobe Memorial Stadium will be moved to Saint Vincent College, the team announced today. The event will be FREE to the public.

For more details, and the schedule for Friday, please visit Steelers.com.

 

July 29, 2013

PHOTOS, PHOTOS…AND MORE PHOTOS

First, some camp news from 99:

July 27: You need rain in order for things to grow. We are growing together as a team. #holdtightroots #construction continues.

July 29: I’m excited to see who rises up today and who gets scared. #pads.

Today was the first day the team practiced in pads.

Photos:

Steeler Nation never disappoints. We asked for training camp photos, and we sure got ’em!

Melanie Gordon sent us some great photos of #99 on the first day of camp that was open to the public.

Some 1st day of camp photos, since I may have been slightly photo-stalking Brett. We don’t let a little drenching rain get us down…until they force evacuation! You can really see the leadership role he has, consulting with the coaches and older players or leading drills.Melanie

You can view her photos, and other photos of #99 at camp HERE.

Da Beard on Da canvas:

David Garren emailed our site prior to when camp started to see if Brett would be holding another autograph signing at Latrobe this year. He had done a painting of #99 that he was hoping to get autographed.

At that point, we were not sure, but he waited patiently until we found out. Unfortunately, the date of the signing (August 2-information is in the post below), did not work for him.

So, we were trying to figure out a way to get the painting signed. Well, Da Beard solved the problem by making sure to sign the painting at camp!

Thanks for signing my painting today at camp. Thank you for all of your help. I will be at Dino’s Friday to stock up on the gear.David

So, he was able to get his awesome painting signed, AND can also now make it to Dino’s to check out the new merchandise- WIN-WIN!

Want to add your training camp photos to Brett’s gallery? Send them to:

[email protected].

.

We love to share fan photos!

Free autograph signing:

Brett will once again be holding a free autograph signing at Dino’s Sports Lounge. Details are below in the July 27 news.

Dino’s is known for their amazing wings, sports atmosphere and outstanding service. Shelby Hebenthal, one of the great employees at Dino’s, waited on Brett and Big Ben last weekend:

They were wonderful, and I love having them come to Dino’s Latrobe. They are really nice, and I enjoyed waiting on them!

Also, Brett’s Bearded Beauties were back at the Steelers Women’s Training Camp. We’ll have photos and news posted about their visit soon!

Thanks to all who have sent photos…keep ’em comin’

 

July 27, 2013

FREE AUTOGRAPH SIGNING

Latrobe autograph signing:

To show his appreciation for the all the support from Steeler Nation and Da Beard Nation, Keisel will be signing autographs on Friday, August 2 from 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m. at Dino’s Sports Lounge in Latrobe, PA.

Da Beard and his crew will be there to greet Steeler Nation and to unveil the latest Da Beard Gear merchandise. Grab a peek at the new gear HERE.

From Brett:

I will be at Dino’s Sports Lounge in Latrobe on 8/2 to sign autographs with my crew. See you there!

Signing information:

Brett and the Da Beard Gear crew want to thank Steeler Nation for their support, so this will be a FREE autograph signing! Yes, we said FREE!

Fans can bring one item (per person) to be signed free by Keisel. Due to the time constraints, Brett will not be able to pose with fans for photographs. He only gets a limited time away from camp, and he wants to ensure as many fans as possible get to have an item signed. We thank you for understanding.

Sorry, NO mail-in items will be accepted for this signing.

Stop in to meet Keisel and his crew… and grab some of Dino’s famous wings!

The Da Beard Gear crew will be in Latrobe from August 1 – August 4.

“My daughter, who attends college and I are very close, so we decided that our trip this summer would be to go to Steelers camp at Latrobe. It was awesome! The players are so approachable and fan friendly. All I can say is AWESOME. The high light of camp was the invitation (to all) to come to a local bar where Brett would be signing items for free. We went and stood in line when it was our time, Brett said hi, smiled and gave my daughter a wink. such a nice man. From Don Woodring, who attended the free signing last year. Today’s news photo was sent by Mr. Woodring.

 

July 26, 2013

READY TO WORK

Keisel, and Da Beard arrived at training camp ready to work today.

Keisel hinted at his much anticipated arrival via Twitter last night with a couple clues:

If you’re wondering how I’m going to be arriving at camp this year, I’ll give you a hint….my ride is Black and Gold! More clues to come.

My rides not a School Bus or a Cat. But you may need a hard hat.

His social media pages and our email lit up with guesses by fans on what mode of transportation he would arrive in today…

Keisel tweeted a photo of a large wheel…then the media located his yellow DUMP TRUCK!

That was fun. Excited to be at camp! Can’t wait to see all my brothers. #thehuntbegins–Keisel, after his arrival.

Brett arrived, ready to get down to work, in his hard hat and new Da Beard Gear t-shirt (information on purchasing the shirt is below).

Social media chatter:

How’d you get to work today. Guessing its not like Brett Keisel..AND Brett Keisel: future Tonka truck driver!”— Will Graves- AP

This is how Pittsburgh Brett Keisel arrives to training camp: in a dump truck!–KDKA

Brett Keisel showed up in a yellow dump truck, dumped his one piece of luggage on lawn in front of dorms. Also wore a Steelers hard hat.–Ray Fittipaldo- Pittsburgh Post Gazette.

New Gear:

We are excited to announce new gear has been added to Brett’s offical Da Beard Gear! For those attending camp, you can stop by Dino’s Sports Lounge in Latrobe, PA. from August 1- August 4 to meet the Da Beard Gear crew and check out the merchandise. Please be aware, the crew cannot take credit card payments at Dino’s, but there is an ATM machine there.

Can’t make it to Dino’s? No worries, you can shop the Online Store to purchase your gear!

There are some great new items so be sure to stop by and check them out!

Training camp photos:

Click HERE for photos from camp.

Also, be sure to stop back each day for more camp information and photos. I will usually update each evening.

 

July 25, 2013

FAN PHOTOS AND CAMP INFO

Today’s news photo comes from Ellen Gotshall. Brett is holding her adorable nephew, Levi at training camp in 2011.

Brett was sooo nice and is truly just an all around down to earth good guy and genuine Steeler!!— Ellen

We appreciate Ellen sharing her photo!

View more training camp photos HERE.

Want to add your training camp photos to Brett’s gallery? Send them to:

[email protected]

.

We love to share fan photos!

Beardie:

We’ve seen photos of children named after Keisel, of dogs and cats named after Keisel,but I think this is a first…

A bearded dragon named after Keisel!

Long story, but ended up with a homeless bearded dragon. Wasn’t really enthused about it until my brilliant son suggest we name it Keisel (it does have a reddish tint). The beardie and I have definitely bonded, and this year I made him a jersey. Thought you might enjoy the picture.–Sharon Cress

Training Camp 2013:

The day we’ve all waited for all since February is about here! Players report to camp tomorrow!

The Pittsburgh Post Gazette has an informative (and funny) guide to camp HERE.

FYI:

Please remember, training camp is a great time to obtain player autographs, but it is NOT a guarantee. The players are happy to greet fans and sign autographs, but their main focus is on preparing for the upcoming season. There are times when they are instructed by coaches to go straight to the trainer, doctor or meetings directly after camp so autographs are not always possible. There are also times when they have media, family or other obligations and they cannot stay and sign for fans.

From what I have witnessed, and judging by the positive emails and photos I receive, the majority of the time the players do try to sign for as many fans as possible, but there are times when they simply cannot get to each and every fan.

They greatly appreciate Steeler Nation’s support everyday at camp, and try to get to as many fans as possible, but they cannot guarantee autographs to all.

From the Steelers organization: The best time to obtain autographs from the players is after practice. There are areas designated for fans to stand to obtain the autographs. There is no formal setting for player autographs on a daily basis.

Fans have always been great and very understanding, but I wanted to post a reminder.

Brandon Brawdy:

One amazing fan story from last year’s camp came from the Brawdy family. Their son Brandon, who recently passed away, had an amazing experience with the players at camp last summer. His family is staying strong and carrying on the mission to wipe out childhood cancer!

From August 2012:

As soon as the horn signaled the end of Steelers’ practice on Wednesday, Brandon Brawdy’s smile was a mile wide, but nonetheless the 15-year old looked slightly overwhelmed when he saw the entire team heading his way.

It was a moment he had been waiting for since his family contacted the Make-A-Wish Foundation after he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer almost a year ago, sharing with them his love for the Steelers and wanting to find a way for him to meet some of his favorite players, in particular defensive end Brett Keisel.

“It’s an amazing honor,” said Keisel. “First off that they can have one wish in the world and it’s to hang out with the Pittsburgh Steelers for the day. That’s a remarkable honor for this organization. For him to want to meet me is incredibly humbling. It means a lot to me.”

Read the entire article, and view a few more photos from Brandon’s exciting day here.

 

July 23, 2013

DA BEARD AND CREW HEADING TO LATROBE

It’s that time of year again…Da Beard and the Steelers are heading to Latrobe for training camp!

And, as they did last year, the Da Beard crew will make their way to Latrobe too! They will be at Dino’s Sports Lounge in Latrobe, PA. from August 1- August 4.

Dino’s is known for their wings, so be sure to stop in there and meet the crew, check out the Da Beard Gear merchandise and sample those award-winning wings!

When we have specific times of when they will be at Dino’s, we’ll let you know. Stay tuned….!

We’re excited to see all of the Da Beard Nation fans from last year, along with some new faces!

 

July 21, 2013

DA BEARD WAS VERY EXCITED…

…to support Big Ben at his golf tournament!

I’m thinking that is the golf version of his sack dance?

Brett attended Ben Roethlisberger’s Second Annual Ben Roethlisberger Foundation Invitational on June 3, 2013. The golf tournament was a fun time for all of the 118 golfers who attended, and it also raised A LOT of money for some great causes.

From BigBen7.com:

The tournament was a huge success – 118 golfers, including teammate and friend Brett Keisel, Mr. Art Rooney II, Steelers Great Franco Harris, Penguins Great Mario Lemieux, and former Steeler and current ESPN NFL analyst Merril Hoge, joined Ben on the course for a full day of golf and games to benefit his Foundation.

The event raised over $100,000 for both of Ben’s Foundation causes: The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Greater Pennsylvania and Southern West Virginia as well asK-9 Police and Fire Units across the country.

Click here for photos of Da Beard on Da Course.

Check out more photos (and news) from the event, and from Ben’s charity fundraiser, held the night before his tournament HERE.

Thank you to Erin and BigBen.7.com for the photos.

 

July 18, 2013

COMING TO A CONCERT HALL NEAR YOU…

Da Beard as the CONDUCTOR!

So much fun Rocking out with the The Pittsburgh Symphony and Windborne Music. These folks are super talented. Thanks for letting me conduct!!Da Beard (Da Conductor)

Brett and his wife Sarah had an amazing time tonight listening to the talents of Brent Havens, Randy Jackson, Dan Clemens, Powell Randolph, George Cintron and Allegra as they played The Music of Led Zeppelin..

From the Windborne Music website:

The music features a massive array of songs from the Zeppelin catalog, many of which already had orchestration. It was a perfect fit for orchestras. Whether the orchestra is playing the lush harmonies afforded the songs or playing the lick-based lines that were created by Plant, Page and John Paul Jones, the driving tunes allow the musicians to dig into their instruments and rock with the band or play counterpoint melodies to the guitar solos or singer.

The concept was to keep the band as close to the original recordings as possible and to wrap the orchestra around the band as one big entity. Rather than the orchestra being a separate part of the music it becomes another instrument within the band. The show even features an Electric Violinist. Some of the songs that you may hear on the show are Kashmir, Black Dog, Good Times, Bad Times, All of My Love and of course Stairway to Heaven. And just so you know, it’s a rock show with rock lighting… and even a mirrorball. Come to the concert ready to be amazed!

Da Beard gives the performance two thumbs up…

This Led Zeppelin show that the Pittsburgh Symphony is putting on is legit. Yinz come check it out. They won’t disappoint.-Brett

Visit the Windborne Music website to view more show dates.

Twitter chatter…

@pghsymphony:

Who’s that on stage with the PSO? Brett Keisel of the Steelers! Pittsburgh worlds collide in Heinz Hall.

@dolleyor:

Showing your refined side again!

@PSOMusicians:

You’re the man, Brett!!

@kkpujia:

Brett Keisel just conducted an amazing version of Led Zeppelin Dancing Days.

@MarkMaddenX:

Brett Keisel as guest conductor at Pgh Symphony Zep show was AWESOME. I wish all NFL players were like him. He’s an exception to the rule.

 

July 14, 2013

IT’S A GREAT DAY TO BE ALIVE…

…And to be fishin’ in the great state of Wyoming!

Beating Browns in July….. Priceless!

Shout out to Dooley & Zeller! Wyoming never disappoints. How ’bout this native cutthroat trout they put me on!”Brett.

 

June 24, 2013

A WYOMING SPIRIT

“I typically dress like this. Thanks to Denny Karchner for capturing it. And to The Backwoodsman Magazine for the cover.”—Keisel

Brett was honored to grace the cover of The Backwoodsman magazine for their July/August edition.

This portrait was done by Denny Karchner, Karchner Western Art.

From Mr. Karchner’s website:

This is Pittsburgh Steeler Defensive End, Brett Keisel from Greybull, Wyoming. I posed him where he hunts, which is up on the famous Carter Mountain Range. This is located right above where we live in Cody, Wyoming. He and his father Lane, have hunted this area for many years. Matter of fact, this is the very area that I hunt as well. It’s absolute God’s Country with a view that is second to none!

Around Brett’s neck is a grizzly bear claw necklace along with turquoise and bone necklaces as well. He is holding an original “Lancaster” muzzleloader rifle that was made in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It is almost 200 years old.

One little side note, if you look close, you will see a small pair of buffalo tracks after my signature. This is to commemorate Brett’s High School mascot and my company name.

Want to order a print? Click HERE.

To order a copy of the magazine, click HERE.

Thanks so much to Denny Karchner for his amazing painting! Also, thank you again to The Backwoodsman Magazine and to Charlie Richie, Associate Publisher & Special Assignments Editor for The Backwoodsman Magazine, for the cover!

June 17, 2013

FISHIN’ WITH DA BEARD

Today was a day for kids and fans. Brett hosted a group of both on a fishing trip today to The Alpine Hunting and Fishing Club . He held a contest for fans to enter, and he also included a group of awesome children fromChildren’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC.

They were treated to a day of fishing, autographs and amazing food from celebrity chef Joseph Tambellini.

The group were even given Da Beard fishing vests to bring them good luck.

From Dave Crawley, KDKA:

Far from the thunderous fans of Heinz Field, at a placid pond in Bridgeville, Steeler Brett Keisel is fishing with some very young cohorts. His fishing buddies are four boys from Children’s Hospital.

“I think they’re just enjoying coming out and doing something different and maybe getting to do it with the bearded one is not so bad either,” Keisel says.

The Alpine Hunting and Fishing Club teamed up with local appliance dealers to make this a special day for patients like young Tyler Skarzenski. Tyler says it’s commendable for the Steeler defensive end “to be willing to spend a day just to give some kids an awesome experience. And it is an awesome experience.”

Nine-year-old Luke Ball and his family moved here from Oregon, five years ago. His mother, Stacie Ball, says, “We knew Luke would eventually need a heart transplant, and we came to Pittsburgh for the hospital.”

Ball had enough heart to reel in the biggest fish of the day.

“The families and the fight that the kids have shown that go to the hospital has really inspired me,” Keisel says. “And to have an opportunity to come out here, and get out of the hospital for a little while, breathe some fresh air, share a few laughs, catch a few fish, what’s better than that?”

Video:

Watch a quick video (courtesy of the Pittsburgh Post Gazette), from the fishing expeditionHERE.

Photos:

You can view a few photos HERE..

From Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh UPMC:

“Thanks so much again for letting some of our patients and families enjoy a day of fishing with you! We appreciate your support!”

Special thanks to those who helped Da Beard make this event possible:

Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC

Don’s Appliances

Hillmon Appliance Distributors

Joseph Tambellini

Smith’s Hotdogs

The Marbury Group

 

June 16, 2013

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY

“When I was coming to my first training camp in 2002 my dad told me the only thing I could control was how hard I worked and how much I wanted it.

I couldn’t control how many reps I was going to get, where I was going to play. The only thing I could control was how hard I was willing to work and how far I was willing to go to get what I wanted.

That really stuck with me when I was younger and clueless.”–Brett, talking about his father, Lane.

Read more stories from Brett’s teammates about how their father’s impacted their livesHERE.

Happy Father’s Day to Brett, Lane and to all the dads, granddads, uncles and moms filling dual roles of Steeler Nation!

June 15, 2013

DA BEARD A CELEBRITY TWEETER

Brett was the surprise celebrity tweeter at the Pirates game last night. Using the hashtag #AYCTBucs, he kept fans entertained via Twitter while the Pirates won in a shut out.

Some of Brett’s tweets:

“Seriously this is best park in the MLB! What a skyline. Oh and we up 2-0!”

“Seriously might consider being an MLB ump when I’m done. Only if they allow beards.”

“Shut aaaaht! You know I like that. Way to go Pirates. Had a great time at the game. Thank you!”

On Brett becoming an umpire:

Mike Shel talks to Brett about his style of umpiring: HERE.

Keisel meets a special fan…

Brett also had the chance to say hello to Connor Michalek at the game:

From Craig McConnell via Twitter:

“Huge thanks for taking time to meet Connor and his teammates yesterday. Great day for the kid.”

“Great meeting you guys. I’m a huge Connor fan!”–Keisel

Their photo was used for today’s news story.

Seven year-old Connor Michalek is a Hampton resident who has battled severe brain and spine cancer for several years but has continued to play baseball through all of his ups and downs. Baseball has been one of the few things that has helped distract him and his family from the many hours of doctors visits, testing and intense chemotherapy.

There will be a benefit for Connor at the McCully Field Complex on Monday night June 17th.

For more details on the event, please click HERE.

They are hoping to pack the park with fans and well-wishers who can bring along signs, banners, anything to show your support of young Connor. ROOT Sports TV will also be there to capture the event for a feature story in an upcoming Pirates broadcast.

Photos:

To view a few photos from the game last night, click here.

We want to give a big thanks to the Pittsburgh Pirates organization and to Cassie Huether for the photos and commentary!

Fan tweets:

Thanks also to all the media and fans who took part in the #AYCTBucs night. Here are a few tweets:

From Bill Brink (Pittsburgh Post Gazette):

“Attempting to confirm if Huntington or Hurdle asked Keisel if he could pitch Saturday night.”

Side note-Brett’s mom did verify that he pitched a no hitter when he was a kid..so maybe that’s a possibility? If the umpire thing doesn’t work out, of course!

“HE should run for mayor when football’s over. There is no athlete that pulls for everything in any city like him.”–scott Meier .

“Just showed Brett Keisel on the screen and everyone freaked out!”–Kaitlin Lamp.

“They should have intersport games. Give Keisel a Bucs jersey and have him roam the outfield and tackle Dodgers outfielders.”–Rob.

“Little known fact: Brett Keisel’s brother has a beard that is equally impressive.”–Stef.

Brett’s brother, Chad attended the game last night with Brett. And, it is true..his beard is just as impressive as Da Beard’s!

“Brett, you are the best supporting the Pirates ! The best.–Mary .

Keisel even impressed a non-Steelers fan:

“I am not a Steelers fan by any stretch of the imagination, but Brett Keisel treats the fans better than anyone I’ve ever seen.”–Jeremy Brown.

We couldn’t post all the tweets, but appreciate everyone who took the time to participate! Go Pirates!

 

June 11, 2013

TRAINING CAMP 2013

Mini camp, which is the last of the offseason workout program began today and will last until Thursday. Then in a little over a month, TRAINING CAMP 2013 gets underway!

What will Da Beard arrive in this year? Last year was the Kubota tractor, any guesses on this year’s transportation?

View the training camp schedule on the right side of this page under 2013 Training camp Schedule.

 

June 10, 2013

FIRST GOAL-WIN DIVISION

From Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette:

Brett Keisel told me there are reasons to be optimistic the Steelers can get back to the Super Bowl, despite their 8-8 record last year, their loss of talent to free agency and other means and what seems to be a general opinion that they won’t do much better than they did in 2012:

“People can say and believe what they want to believe. But in this locker room we feel we have the team and the talent to get back and our first goal is to get back and win our division. Good things have happened around here when we won our division . . . that’s our mentality.”

Keisel: A Chili Connoisseur:

Michelle Wright, WTAE, spoke with Brett about being a judge at the 4th Annual Five Alarm Mountain Madness Chili Cook-Off held at at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort.

Find out what she had to say about his chili judging skills, and check out #99’s biggest (and maybe furriest) fan HERE.

View photos of Keisel and teammates at the event here.

 

June 8, 2013

FIVE ALARM MOUNTAIN MADNESS CHILI COOK-OFF

Is there someone cooler than Keisel? If so, we think he may have met him today.

Keisel and teammates Cam Heyward and David DeCastro were part of the celebrity judge team for the 4th Annual Five Alarm Mountain Madness Chili Cook-Off held at at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort today.

100% of proceeds from the Five Alarm Mountain Madness Chili Cookoff will go to the Farmington Volunteer Fire Department.

From Michelle Wright, WTAE:

Steelers lineman Brett Keisel is currently at Nemacolin Woodlands for the 5 Alarm Mountain Madness Chili Cookoff and Brewfest. Which altogether sounds pretty awesome.

And Keisel wasn’t ever the coolest person there. Well, I use “person” in a weird way. Because I mean the awesome dog with the tongue sticking out. You see him, the one in the sunglasses, Brett Keisel jersey and don’t-care-attitude.

Some chili is gonna inevitably feature cilantro as a starring ingredient and chillKeiseldog will be all “we’re good.”

View photos of Keisel and teammates at the event here.

Thank you to Michelle Wright (@tvmichelle) of WTAE for her commentary and photos. Thanks also to @CamHeyward and Stephen Brosky for sharing their photos!

 

June 6, 2013

FATHER’S DAY SALE

Nearly everything in the online store is on sale! Even if you think your dear ol’ Dad has everything, just remember, he could always use some more Da Beard Gear! Happy Father’s Day!

From tees to hoodies, from beanies to camo gear, the crew at Da Beard Gear has dad covered.

You can even purchase an autographed photo of #99 as he runs into the end zone for a TOUCHDOWN!

Da Beard Gear is the only place to get official Brett “Da Beard” Keisel gear, so stop on by their site and help dad GET HIS BEARD ON!

Keisel feels this could be a big year for the Steelers, so get your gear now and be ready to cheer him and the team on this season!

 

June 5, 2013

“IT’S IMPORTANT FOR ME TO BE HERE”

Brett spoke with the media today about the importance of being in attendance and what the defense can do to create turnovers.

From Steelers.com:

On attending all the OTA’s:

“This is my team, I feel like, so I think it’s important for me to be here. We have alot of young defensive linemen and I wanna show them that even an old guy can come out here and work..even an old guy can go in the weight room and work out after practice..if I can do it, they can do it.”

On what feel he has for the defense this year:

“I feel like we can be really good again. We’ve made an emphasis on trying to get some turnovers here in OTA’s. I think that will be important this year to try and get more turnovers..get more sacks. I look for us to be tough.”

Listen to the entire interview HERE.

And, from Teresa Varley, Steelers.com:

Brett Keisel might be the oldest player on the Steelers defense at 34, but you would never know it. His enthusiasm and boundless energy reflects that of some of the young defensive linemen he mentors daily at the team’s OTAs.

“It’s not a secret that I’m one of the older guys on the team, the oldest guy on the defense,” said Keisel. “If it is that way (and it’s the last year), I want to do everything I can in my power to hopefully help lead this team to another championship.”

Also, from Jim Wexell, SteelCityInsider.net:

Cameron Heyward’s searching for a role these days, or at least something more defined than “first sub for either Keis or Zig.”

I don’t really know,” Heyward said. “Keisel didn’t take the snaps today. I’ve just got to be ready to play when my number is called.”

The scuttlebutt – nothing official could be confirmed – is that Heyward is preparing himself for a head-to-head battle with not Keisel but with Hood at this coming training camp. Hood, of course, is entering the final year of his contract, as is Keisel. The obvious difference between Hood and Keisel is that Hood just turned 26 and Keisel will turn 35 in September.

But before anyone can make a snap decision on which player the Steelers will re-sign, there’s also this difference:

Keisel made the Pro Bowl in 2010, was an alternate in 2011, and led the team with a career-high 40 QB pressures in 2012. The number of pressures not only exceeded the runner-up by 21, it was second-most of the Dick LeBeau II era.

Those are extraordinary accomplishments for a 3-4 end in this scheme. Even the great Aaron Smith made only one Pro Bowl, and it took an outside linebacker, James Harrison, to top the pressures count with 44.

“When the day comes that I do hang it up, Cam’s worked hard and I will gladly hand the torch off to him. But, that day’s not coming soon.

I’ve been in here almost every day, and he’s in there, too,” Keisel said as he pointed to the weight room. “He’s been working his butt off, and it shows. He looks bigger and stronger. He’s got a great feel for the defense. He’s just waiting for that opportunity, and when he gets it he’ll be ready to shine.”

Read the entire article, and much more Steelers news HERE.

 

May 29, 2013

GIVE CREDIT TO GENETICS

From Jim Wexell, SteelCityInsider.net:

It may have been BYU Day down on the South Side yesterday – with the BYU coaching staff in town to study the defense, Brett Keisel standing up and flexing his leadership, and newcomer Loni Fangupo finally getting noticed – but let Steelers OTA No. 4 be remembered as the day first-round draft pick Jarvis Jones took his first reps with the first team as the blind-side pass-rusher.

“I just told him run to the ball. That’s our thing,” said Keisel, who played next to Jones at defensive end.

“He looked good out there. They had a couple runs right at us and he held his ground.”

Keisel put in a full day at the South Side. Before his morning workout he met with the defensive coaching staff of his alma mater, BYU, and then after lifting he riled the troops with his late-practice orders to “Finish strong!”

Keisel then stayed late after practice to work on technique with a couple of rookie defensive ends – Nick Williams and Brian Arnfelt – and then made his rounds with the media. That was all before team meetings. And if Steelers fans had their way, the 34-year-old Pro Bowler would’ve hit the front office later in the day to talk about a contract extension.

“Well, it is my last year on my contract,” Keisel said. “I’m kind of looking at where it could potentially be my last year. I don’t know. I’m going to go through the season and see what happens. If it is, I want to go out with another ring. That’s my focus.

“I’m not really worried about if this is my last minicamp, or if this will be my last training camp. I’m just enjoying still being here and enjoying still being able to compete.”

Keisel was asked why he seems to get better each year.

“My dad would say ‘genetics,’” he said with a laugh.

Thank you to Mr. Wexell for allowing us to share his article. Visit his website for the latest Steelers news, tidbits and information.

Also,

From Alan Robinson, Trib Live:

With James Harrison gone, defensive end Brett Keisel is the oldest player on defense.

“It’s weird to be the old guy on the block,” he said.

Keisel, who will be 35 in September, said one of the added responsibilities of being an elder member of the defense is helping new players when they arrive from college.

“They’re coming from 4-3s, and they basically have to forget everything they’ve been taught through college and start fresh,” he said. “It’s hard because you’re used to doing things one way and you have to switch your stance up and what not. But they’re doing it.”

And,

From Steel City Roller, Behind the Steel Curtain:

The Beard may be showing a few more tinges of gray, but his warrior’s heart continues to beat just as strongly as it ever has with no regard for his age. If Keisel passes on nothing more than his drive, desire and passion for Steelers football, his tutelage will pay dividends in the long run.

Fishing with Keisel:

News on how to enter a contest to “Fish with Keisel” is below. The deadline to enter is May 31.

 

May 23, 2013

KEISEL TEAMS UP WITH CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL FOR VIP FISHING TRIP

As we mentioned in the May 19 news (below), Brett is hosting a fishing trip which will include four lucky contest winners and four special children from Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC.

“Kids are always wanting to do new and interesting things. They want some way to get out of the hospital and do something different, so I think it will be great.”Brett, in an interview with KDKA today.

Besides the fishing, Keisel said the day will include an autograph session and lunch.

“Of course, I like to eat a lot, so we have a great chef coming in to put on a barbecue, so it’s a lot of fun,” Keisel said.

In order to enter, you have to be at least 18-years-old and must have a valid PA. fishing license.

Several fans have checked on obtaining a one-day PA fishing license. They say it is possible, but we suggest checking as you will be required to have one for at least that day.

The deadline to enter the contest is May 31, so hurry up and get your entry in to win!

How to enter:

Fans can click here for Don’s Appliance and Hillmon Applicance locations to enter in person.

You can also click the link to Don’s Appliances or Hillmon Appliance Distributors to enter electronically. Once you visit either site, the contest flyer will appear and you can click on the photo to enter. It will pop up an email for you to send. Please include your name, address, telephone number and date of birth (you must be 18 or older to enter). Also, please enter “Fishing with Keisel” in your email subject line.

FYI: We are aware of an issue when trying to enter electronically via a mobile phone. For now, you can enter via a computer or IPad/tablet (or in person if you are local to the area), but not through a mobile phone (for some). We will let you know if this can be fixed. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Read the post below for more information. Good luck!

Watch Brett’s interview with KDKA HERE.

OTA’s (Organized Team Activities):

The first round of OTA’s wrapped up today, and the team had a surprise visit from Aaron Smith!

“Good first week of OTA’s. Highlight today was a guest appearance from my friend Aaron Smith who currently weighs 245. He played at 305.”Keisel

You can view a few photos from the OTA sessions HERE!

 

May 19, 2013

FISHIN’ WITH KEISEL

“Fishing is the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with your family. I am honored to partner with Hillmon Appliance and Don’s Appliance. We are looking forward to a very special day.”–Keisel

WIN A VIP FISHING TRIP WITH BRETT KEISEL!

To get a closer look at the flyer, please click here.

Don’s Appliances and Hillmon Appliance Distributors are partnering with Brett Keisel and Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC to offer lucky customers as well as select patients, an opportunity of a lifetime!

Participants will spend a day in the outdoors with two-time Superbowl champion and defensive captain, Brett Keisel.

The event will be hosted at a private hunting and fishing club. Celebrity chef, Joseph Tambellini, will host the lunchtime barbeque.

Included in the trip:

A half day private trip to a stocked lake.

A commemorative Da Beard fishing vest.

An autograph session.

A lunchtime barbeque hosted by celebrity chef, Joseph Tambellini.

Rules and Regulations:

You MUST be 18 years old or older to enter and you MUST have a valid PA fishing license to participate.

The deadline to enter the contest is May 31.

How to enter:

Fans can click here for Don’s Appliance and Hillmon Applicance locations to enter in person.

You can also click the link to Don’s Appliances or Hillmon Appliance Distributors to enter electronically. Once you visit either site, the contest flyer will appear and you can click on the photo to enter. It will pop up an email for you to send. Please include your name, address, telephone number and date of birth (you must be 18 or older to enter). Also, please enter “Fishing with Keisel” in your email subject line.

FYI: We are aware of an issue when trying to enter electronically via a mobile phone. For now, you can enter via a computer or IPad/tablet (or in person if you are local to the area), but not through a mobile phone (for some). We will let you know if this can be fixed. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Please be aware, you cannot use the “Click Here” link to enter through the photo used on this site. You must use the link provided above for the stores websites.

 

HAPPY CINCO DE MAYO

Happy Cinco de Mayo Steeler Nation! We know Mexico truly has a HUGE Steelers fan base, which the players greatly appreciate. Brett and some of his teammates went to Mexico City last year to host a couple fan camps. The turnout was amazing and the players were quite impressed and thankful for the experience.

Below are some of the fan remarks and photos we received after the players hosted the fan camps.

El Beardo goes to Mexico City

“Thanks to Steeler Nation in Mexico! Your enthusiasm and appreciation for our team is incredible. Gracias mi amigos!”-Keisel after his weekend in Mexico City hosting Steelers fan camps.

Today’s news photo is from Francisco Guadarrama Garcia: “Respect El Beardo. Thanks Brett for a very fun day.”— with Ely Leñero Reveles and Flaco ‘tres Tres.

Keisel, Ryan Mundy, James Harrison, Charlie Batch and Emmanuel Sanders represented the Steelers in Mexico City this weekend for two fan camps. Steeler Nation Mexico could not have been more excited for the players to arrive and get the camps going! From the moment the camps were announced a few months ago, the site started receiving emails from excited fans waiting to meet Da Beard (or El Beardo as the WDVE crew refers to Brett).

A few messages and emails received through Twitter, Facebook and email:

It was a pleasure to have you here in Mexico. Thanks for all your kindness. See you in Pittsburgh.Fernando Von Rossum

Brett, thank you for the fun weekend! It was awesome meeting you and for being so kind and willing with your time.Alex S.

You are a beast on the football field and gentleman in person. So down to earth and outgoing. Thank you for giving me something to cherish forever! Go SteelersTomas Fierdo

I think that today is in my top ten better days of my life! Thanks Brett for coming to Mexico.Hector E. Sanchez A.

Well, Mr. Keisel, I hope you’re having a blast in my town, Mexico. I told you Steeler Nation is huge in Mexico. Thank you for taking time of your busy life to go and teach young Mexicans how to play the game I love!Danny Arguelles

I met Da Beard! Have watched him on my TV for years and never thought I’d get the chance to shake hands with my idol. And to find out he’s truly a great person and very classy! Thank you to all of the Steelers who took time to visit us. Will never forget it.Edgar D.

Photos galore:

You can view some photos here.

April 27, 2013

DRAFT NEWS AND FAN BLITZ

Too much stock in 40 times and drills. The GAME is about playmaking. Sounds like the kid can play. Welcome to the Steelers, Jarvis (Jones).”Brett, after the Steelers drafted Jarvis Jones, Outside Linebacker from Georgia with their 1st round selection.

Brett also sent congrats to a fellow BYU player, Ziggy Ansah who was drafted by the Detroit Lions:

Congratulations to Ziggy Ansah! See you Nov. 17th in Da Burgh.

For more news on the Steelers draft picks, visit Steelers.com.

2013 Fan Blitz:

The Steelers held their annual Fan Blitz at Heinz Field today. Steeler Nation was out in full force to meet some of the new Steelers faces, and some of the vets and retired players.

Brett attended the event and had a great time meeting all the fans and playing with the children:

Fun times Heinz Field during the Fan Blitz. As always, Steeler Nation is amazing!

View photos from the event HERE.

 

April 26, 2013

DRAFT DAY-LOOKING BACK (PART TWO)

The post below is a look back at the 2002 draft, with notes and news from Brett’s NFL draft time experience. It was originally posted on April 20, 2012 and we have had several requests to “repost” it, so we figured with today being draft day, it was a perfect time to take a trip down “Draft Day Memory Lane”…

THE CALL

And, the Pittsburgh Steelers select…

…DL Brett Keisel.

On April 21, 2002 the Pittsburgh Steelers drafted Brett Keisel late in the 7th round.

“I picked up the phone and the caller asked ‘How would you like to be a Pittsburgh Steeler?'”

“As fast as I could say yes, I did.

It was just unbelievable. Pure joy. I can’t even begin to explain it. It is just an exceptional feeling. It’s a dream come true..a dream I’ve had since the third grade.”

From Marlys Good’s article, Steelers choose Keisel in 7th roundGreybull Standard,-April 25, 2002:

Sunday afternoon. Time running down in the football draft that had sports fans glued to their television sets all weekend. Then the magic words–“and the Pittsburgh Steelers select…DL Brett Keisel.

Just seconds before the news hit the screens, the phone rang in the home of Brett’s parents, Connie and Lane Keisel, in Fairview Utah.

“I picked up the phone and the caller asked ‘How would you like to be a Pittsburgh Steeler?’ As fast as I could say yes, I did. It was just unbelievable. Pure joy. I can’t even begin to explain it. It is just an exceptional feeling. It’s a dream come true..a dream I’ve had since the third grade.”

The Greybull High School grad said that when he was younger, he wasn’t sure the dream would be realized, but, “Once I started playing at BYU, I knew this day would come.”

Pro scouts had been looking at Keisel during his junior year, but when he was injured as a senior, his confidence waverled slightly.

“I wasn’t so sure. You always wonder what is going to happen-injuries and things like that. You never know. I could have blown a knee and been all done. You just take everyday, don’t think about it, and just go play.”

He ended up having an outstanding senior year for the Cougars, played in the Senior Bowl, where he had another outstanding performance, then signed with an agent, and began working out in Phoenix through Jan. and part of Feb. From there he went to the Combine in Indianapolis. It was a wake up call.

“There were 32 teams, each with about 10 people and about 40 people from each position. It was huge. You always wonder, but it was so crazy. There were so many people and you think ‘What are my chances?’ but you just do the best you can.”

It was originally thought that Keisel would be picked in an earlier draft, But Saturday came and went. “Then Sunday I kept thinking ‘it will come this morning.’ I thought the fourth or fifth round. It still didn’t come, didn’t come and didn’t come. By the sixth round I started getting calls (from different teams) asking me if I wanted to come play there, what kind of a system I liked playing under, but no one was picking me up”

While Brett was on the phone, the 35 or so guests, which included his brother and sister-in-law, Chad and Jamie and their sons, Gabe and Zack from Greybull, youngest sister Kalli, who is attending BYU, and extended family and friends, that included Greybull grad Sarah Johnson, were trying to get information to see what was going on. “Then it came on the screen and our whole house cheered.”

Lane Keisel was perhaps more nervous during the wait than his son. “He is undoubtedly my most intense-biggest fan, and he was having a harder time that I was I think,” Brett said with emotion. “He kept going outside, coming back in, going back out.”

In a statement follwing the draft, Steeler Coach Bill Cowher said, “And Brett Keisel, the last guy we took, defensive lineman, defensive end. Played opposite Ryan Denney at BYU. Good, tough, motor guy that, again, plays hard. He can grow into the 290 range. We love his speed. Just has to learn to work and play in the scheme.”

Brett just laughs, “I can do that (gain weight).”

Surrounded by family:

Connie Keisel knew in high school that this was what he wanted, and that he had chosen football (college-level) over basketball because he thought he had a better chance of going to the next level. “But I honestly didn’t think it would happen. You just support them, love them and help them.”

Connie said that, “It is just a real thrill. So few get this chance. Looking on the web page, we saw about 25 signed as free agents, but they (Steelers) signed just seven or eight in the draft. I though, ‘Wow. They chose Brett above all the others there!'”

The Keisel house was packed with about 35 people, down from the 75-plus expected originally until a full-blown blizzard kept some away. “We had a pretty good time Saturday,” she said, but by Sunday the mood had changed.

“We were all exhausted; emotionally drained. All of us were tense and felt so horrible for Brett. There was so much emotion.” Connie said her son would watch the draft, go downstairs to play some pool, come back up, then disappear to play Ping-Pong. But then came “the call” and all the suspense and waiting was over.

Brett leaves Fairview Thursday, but had to do a little shopping before making his Pittsburgh debut. There will be rookie camp, press conferences and a banquet, and “I have to get some ‘rags’ to wear,” he said.

His mother explained that her son is not exactly a clotheshorse and his casual wardrobe would have to be expanded to include some dress clothes. But, she predicted, the first purchase will probably be a “new truck. He’s been driving a little dumpy car for the past few years.”

Always a Buff:

Brett might be a “Utahan” now. And he might have been a BYU Cougar during his college years, but he hasn’t forgotten his roots.

He sharpened his teeth on opponents while playing for the Greybull Buffs, in football, basketball and track. And he knows he has a huge following in his home town.

‘To my fans back there, I want to just say thanks for all the support-there is plenty more to come. I love Greybull. It will always be home. I’ll always be a Buff.”

Thank you to Connie Keisel for the photos (and articles) used in today’s news post. The first one shows Brett receiving “The Call” from the Steelers (along with his brother Chad who was watching it all unfold on television). The second photo is of Brett with his adorable nephews, Gabe and Zack, as he waits to hear his name called in the draft.

Check back Sunday for some post draft reflections, and a current day reflection write-up on Keisel from Jim Wexell, author and publisher of Steelcityinsider.net.

Stay tuned!

 

April 25, 2013

DRAFT DAY-LOOKING BACK (PART ONE)

The post below is a look back at the 2002 draft, with notes and news from Brett’s NFL draft time experience. It was originally posted on April 20, 2012 and we have had several requests to “repost” it, so we figured with today being draft day, it was a perfect time to take a trip down “Draft Day Memory Lane”…

With Draft time quickly approaching, we thought it would be nice to take a trip down “Draft Day Memory Lane”..all the way back to the 2002 draft. You know..the one that brought Brett Keisel to Pittsburgh.

On April 21, 2002, Brett Keisel was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers. How he ended up with the Steelers is an interesting story..but first let’s take a look at the day before the draft. Before Keisel, from the small town of Greybull, Wyoming, knew if or when he would be drafted into the big leagues.

From Dick Harmon’s article, All Keisel can do now is sit, wait. (The Front Row-April 20, 2002):

Brett Keisel comes from a real American family. His kin likes wide open spaces, horses, freshly baked pie, a good deer hunt, friends that don’t lie and a fireproof flag.

On draft day, Brett will be at his parents’ home located on a small ranch in Fairview. There he’ll be relaxing with his older brother, Chad, who’ll come down from Greybull, Wyo. They’ll be pitching a few horseshoes and shooting pool as ESPN blares on and NFL draftees go down like solitaire cards.

Once upon a time, after Brett’s father, Lane, retired as an Orem firefighter and moved his family and wife, Connie, to Wyoming, their son kept growing like a bull. He was the biggest kid in town, and in high school, nobody but skinny Matt Koeller was taller than Brett. It would take two of Matt to be as thick as one Brett.

After earning all-state honors in basketball and football, Brett did the natural things thing as the town’s best athlete-he moved on to college, where he enrolled at BYU.

This weekend, it’s uncertain if Brett will be drafted. If he is, he’ll be the first player from Greybull drafted since Wyoming linebacker Jim Crawford ended up with the Raiders.

This week, Brett received all kinds of phone calls from NFL teams. Calls on Thursday alone were from the Redskins, Eagles, Dolphins, Jaguars Packers and Steelers.

Scouts wanted to know if he’d stubbed his toe; if he was healthy as the last time they saw him; if he pulled a hamstring, groin or calf muscle pitching horseshoes; and if all his numbers from the tests were on the level heading into draft day. Some wanted to know where he could be reached if he got drafted.

For Brett. who hobbled around much of BYU’s 12-2 season with an ankle sprain and a hamstring pull, it’s exciting. “It’s a dream come true,” he says.

Life has changed since he limped off the field at the Liberty Bowl. He’s healed. He played well in the Senior Bowl. He’s been through the NFL Combine where he was tested, jabbed, timed, probed and X-rayed. NFL gurus have toyed with his body and his mind. one question that he was asked was if he could kill little animals.

“It was weird,” he says. “Some questions were goofy.”

Now, Brett is a world apart from last December. His future is on the line. The next 48 hours, his life will be in a sort of suspended animation. He’s at the mercy of ex-jocks, men with caps and grease pens and chalk boards.

“It seems like forever since I put the pads on and played football, ” he says.

If he amounts to anything come Monday in the eyes of the NFL, Brett credits his coach, Gary Crowton, and conditioning coach, Jay Omer.

“They pushed us to the limits and it’s been great,” Brett says.

The next two days will seem even longer once the draft starts this morning. You can only toss so many horseshoes with big brother Chad. Shooting pool will also grow old.

He’ll get the call or his agent will. Or there will be no call at all and free agency will call his number.

This is serious business now. Playing games is no longer for fun, but for money, and Greybull’s once giant manchild is waiting like a hay field to be moved.

“I’m going to just relax. Whatever happens, happens. I did everything I could and I can’t do anything more, ” Brett says.

It’s a simple approach and one that should work for this guy who could be happy in a wide open field or a crowded stadium.

Somebody just needs to call. Big Brett is waiting as well as a regular big guy can do.

Check back tomorrow for the story of Keisel’s draft day experience, complete with interviews from Brett and his family, and a photograph of Keisel as he receives “The Call” from the Steelers. We will also have comments from Brett’s first NFL coach, Bill Cowher, as he talks about the 2002 draft picks, and a great current day reflection write-up on Keisel from Jim Wexell, author and publisher ofSteelcityinsider.net.

Stay tuned!

 

April 21, 2013

“BIG DUDE” HELPS BATTLES CANCER

Linda Harper knows she needs to stay strong and positive in her fight against breast cancer. So, she decided to enlist the help of a few Steelers players, or their jerseys, while she undergoes chemotherapy.

From her email to the Ben Roethlisberger website last month:

“I am 46 years old and was just diagnosed with breast cancer. I will start chemo next week. That should last 4-6 months, then surgery and radiation. I have no doubt I will beat this. I do not want anything from this website, just wanted to let you know that I will wear my Big Ben #7 jersey to my first chemo treatment…Big Ben has overcome so many obstacles in his personal and professional life…what an inspiration.

I will take my next round in my Brett Keisel #99 jersey…big dude…will help me kick cancer’s a**.

And, the third testament will be in my Troy #43 jersey. We all need someone to pray for us and I know if he knew me he would say a prayer for me….then I will start the rounds all over again with Big Ben #7….GOD BLESS STEELER NATION AND GOD BLESS ME!!! All of this will take place in St. Vincent’s hospital in Jacksonville, Florida…Go Steelers!”

As she said, Linda wore her #99 jersey to her next round of chemo. Her husband, Lane sent this message:

“My beautiful wife, Da Beard & Jack Lambert.”

View a photo of Linda in her #7 jersey, HERE.

Linda is a true inspiration to all! We wish her the best and ask you all to keep her in your thoughts and prayers!

Thank you to the Harper’s for sharing their photos and to Erin, from BigBen7 for sharing the original post.

Evening update:

Ben Roethlisberger’s website posted an update to Linda’s story, so please click on over to read it. Your thoughts and prayers, and the power of Da Jersey’s (and Jack Lambert) are working!

 

April 18, 2013

RIP BRANDON BRAWDY

Last February we brought you the story of young Brandon Brawdy’s courageous battle with Desmoplastic Small Round Blue Cell tumors (DSRCT)- a very rare childhood cancer. He and his family vowed to “fight this thing like crazy”, and that they did.

We are saddened to pass along the news of Brandon’s passing with you.

From his father, Brett Brawdy today:

“Brandon, you have taught me and your ma so much since your battle started! We will always love you bubba! Your battle is now over and I can picture you with your wings! RIP my best friend! Love ya!”-Dad

Brandon was granted a wish from the Make-A-Wish Foundation last summer. His wish was to visit the Pittsburgh Steelers and meet one of his favorite players, Brett Keisel.

From Teresa Varley, Steelers.com:

As soon as the horn signaled the end of Steelers’ practice on Wednesday, Brandon Brawdy’s smile was a mile wide, but nonetheless the 15-year old looked slightly overwhelmed when he saw the entire team heading his way.

It was a moment he had been waiting for since his family contacted the Make-A-Wish Foundation after he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer almost a year ago, sharing with them his love for the Steelers and wanting to find a way for him to meet some of his favorite players, in particular defensive end Brett Keisel.

“It’s an amazing honor,” said Keisel. “First off that they can have one wish in the world and it’s to hang out with the Pittsburgh Steelers for the day. That’s a remarkable honor for this organization. For him to want to meet me is incredibly humbling. It means a lot to me.”

“I can not say enough about what the Steelers and Brett Keisel have done for my son. It was a trip of a lifetime and every single player and coach took the time to talk to Brandon and sign a ball for him.”

Please keep Brandon and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

You can visit their Facebook Page to leave your thoughts and condolences and to learn more about DSRCT.

 

April 15, 2013

OFFSEASON PROGRAM BEGINS

“It’s great to see so many guys come out, especially after a disappointing year last year. Everyone is here on the first day ready to work and hopefully get back on the winning side of things.

I just wanted to show you don’t have to just be a young guy to want to be here. That is why I have been here 12 years. I made it a point, especially in my younger days, to be at all of these. It shows you want to work to get better and you want to keep your job. That is what it’s all about.”Keisel, on the start of the Steelers offseason workout program.

From Teresa Varley, Steelers.com:

The first regular season game isn’t until September, but football season got underway for many Steelers’ players on Monday with the first day of voluntary workouts. Players are permitted to do conditioning work at the team’s practice facility with the strength and conditioning staff, and there was a large turnout for the first session, including a mix of veterans and young players.

More from #99:

“A lot of teams would be happy to be 8-8, but we are not. We are looking at it as very disappointing. You have to find ways to correct the mistakes. You have to get guys who are ready to step up and play. We are a young team now. Everyone has said how old we are for a long time. We have a lot of young guys that have to seize this opportunity and play great ball.”

Read more HERE.

Thoughts & prayers to the city of Boston, those involved with the Boston Marathon, and police, fire & EMT personnel. –BK Team

 

April 11, 2013

STEELERS COUNTRY

Pittsburgh architectural illustrator and digital artist, Charles Ott Jr.(also known as the Steel City Artist) created this detailed sports art digital painting titled “Steelers Country”, featuring our own #99.

From his website:

The Steelers art shown has garnered wide popularity amongst the fans of Steelers Nation in Pittsburgh and around the world. Every once in awhile, I donate my sports art for charitable events hosted by our Pittsburgh athletes at local charity fundraisers and summer golf outings. My sports art is presently on display in corporate offices, fitness clubs, sports bars and even in the private collections of some notable professional athletes.

Charles Ott has graciously offered to donate a portion of the sales for this print to theHomeless Children’s Education Fund (HCEF). Brett and his wife Sarah are Advisory Board Members for HCEF and work closely with the cause to help ensure that children who are homeless have access to the same educational opportunities and experiences as their peers.

From Mr. Ott:

Steel City Artist will be auctioning off #100 signed & numbered limited edition prints of his detailed sports art digital painting titled “Steelers Country”. The artist will be donating a percentage of the total sales from this painting at the end of April towards the Homeless Children’s Education Fund in Pittsburgh which Brett and his wife Sarah proudly support. The painting can be viewed in the link provided below and is available in five different sizes. The full-color artist enhanced giclee paintings are reproduced onto Epson heavyweight acid-free photographic luster paper and look amazing. The Steelers art makes unique & collectible gifts for any Steelers fan to display in their sports game room or office. Be sure to check out Steel City Artist’s other immaculate hand-drawn pen & ink illustrations and colorful digital paintings.

Click HERE for a closer look at the print and Mr. Ott’s generous offer.

The prints are very reasonably priced, starting at $25.00 for an 8×10.

Click HERE to view more of his work, and to place an order.

Ott has many other Steeler players to choose from also, incuding Ben Roethlisberger, Mean Joe Greene, Jack Lambert and more. For this current offer, the donation to HCEF is for the sales from “Steelers Country” prints only.

Thank you to Charles Ott Jr. for his generous offer and for sharing his amazing artwork with us! Please share his link and work with your friends, family and social media pages.

 

April 1, 2013

THE WHITE HOUSE EASTER EGG ROLL

“Awesome day today at the White House! NFL Play 60 station was definitely a hit for kids at the Easter Egg Roll. Thanks for having us!”Brett, after his day at the White House.

Brett was invited to participate in the 135th White House Easter Egg Roll today. He brought along his family and they had a great time with all the families attending the annual event.

From Steelers.com:

Keisel was there on behalf of the NFL’s Play 60 campaign, encouraging kids to stay active and play for 60 minutes a day.

“It was amazing,” said Keisel. “When we got there I couldn’t help but think about the last time I was at the White House, with my teammates celebrating the Super Bowl XLIII victory.

Keisel, along with 49ers receiver Anquan Boldin, Giants receiver Victor Cruz, and Vikings running back Adrian Peterson, led kids in fun and games, but also got a treat of their own when they met President Barack Obama.

“It was awesome,” said Keisel. “It wasn’t just Mr. President but it was the whole first family we met. It was an honor for me. I told him Ambassador (Dan) Rooney said hello. I gave him some ‘Beard’ gear. He knew about the beard and who I was and that was an honor for me. I hope he goes out and drains some threes wearing the ‘Beard’ gear.”

More from Brett on the event:

““I really appreciate the NFL’s Play 60 movement because I know with my kids if they don’t get outside and play for a day they go crazy. It’s so much better for them, so much healthier to get them active and do things kids need to do to be healthy and happy.”

Read more of the article, and view some photos HERE.

Now, how cool would it be to have a photo of President Obama in Brett’s Da Beard Gear!

WJ36Support:

This online raffle was set up for Weston Johnson, a football coach from Brett’s home state and a good friend of the Da Beard Gear Crew. Mr. Johnson is fighting a battle with Metastatic Melanoma.

His friends and family established it to show their support to Weston and to help with his medical bills.

The auction has some amazing items up for grabs including signed jerseys from Brett and Ben Roethlisberger! They also have a signed football from Joe Montana and a signed baseball from Evan Longoria. Not a sports fan? Well, they also have a signed poster from Chris LeDoux and so much more!

The auction will run from April 1-April 10. You can access it at Sheridanmedia.com.

Be sure to check it out!

 

March 31, 2013

ROLLIN’ EGGS & MORE

The 135th White House Easter Egg Roll:

Brett is scheduled to participate in the 2013 White House Easter Egg Roll today (April 1)!

This year’s theme is “Be Healthy, Be Active, Be You!”

From The White House:

On Monday April 1, 2013, the First Family will host the 135th annual White House Easter Egg Roll. This year, more than 35,000 people from all 50 states will be joining us on the South Lawn for games, stories, and, of course, the traditional egg roll.In addition to all the fun and games, the day’s activities — which will include sports courts and cooking demonstrations — will help educate families on smart ways to incorporate healthy eating and exercise choices into their daily routines, which are key pillars of First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! initiative.

You can watch the live streaming of the Easter Egg Roll HERE.

WJ36Support:

This Facebook page was set up for Weston Johnson, a football coach from Brett’s home state and a good friend of the Da Beard Gear Crew. Mr. Johnson is fighting a battle with Metastatic Melanoma.

His friends and family established the page to show their support to Weston and to announce an online auction which will take place starting today.

The auction has some amazing items up for grabs including signed jerseys from Brett and Ben Roethlisberger! They also have a signed football from Joe Montana and a signed baseball from Evan Longoria. Not a sports fan? Well, they also have a signed poster from Chris LeDoux and so much more!

The auction will run from April 1-April 10. You can access it (beginning sometime April 1) atSheridanmedia.com.

Be sure to check it out!

 

March 22, 2013

FIVE ALARM MOUNTAIN MADNESS CHILI COOK-OFF

Alright Steeler Nation, here is your chance to set Keisel’s taste buds on FIRE!

Brett will once again be a celebrity judge for the 4th Annual Five Alarm Mountain Madness Chili Cook-Off held at at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort on June 8!

More celebrity judges to be announced soon.

Participants can compete in three categories: Red Chili, Chili Verde and Salsa. You will compete for over $5,000 in cash prizes with a $2,000 prize to the 1st place Red Chili!

Ready to get cookin’?

Before you do, be sure to learn more about the event here.

Not a cook? Well, stop on by anyway to say hello, taste the chili and check out the gorgeous Nemacolin Woodlands Resort!

The event has no gate fee. Guests may choose to take part in any of the following event activities (fee involved): Chili Tastings, Beer Tastings and All-Access Passes. Information is available here.

100% of proceeds from the Five Alarm Mountain Madness Chili Cookoff will go to the Farmington Volunteer Fire Department.

View photos of Keisel at last year’s event here.

Thank you to the awesome crew at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort for all their information and for linking to Brett’s website. We appreciate it!

 

March 22, 2013

JR. GENUIS

Abby Keisel, Brett’s niece put together a project for the Jr. Genius fair at her school. She chose to do a presentation on the Steelers, focusing on the team’s history, what goes on at training camp, and what it takes to stay in shape to compete in the NFL.

As seen in today’s news photo, Abby had a table set up complete with a poster of the Steelers history, including the year the Steelers organization began, the amount Mr. Rooney paid for the team, and the years and locations of Superbowl titles the team won (complete with scores). It is evident she did her research!

The table also included GameDay programs from the team, Brett’s Whirl magazine cover, and various items from the Steelers and her Uncle Brett. There was information on “What Moves You, a program Brett was affiliated with a few years ago to get kids active, and a photo of Brett’s teammate, Ben Roethlisberger. Of course, the presentation would not be complete without photos of Brett with Da Beard and without!

Great job by Abby on her presentation and we appreciate her sharing it with us. Many of you may remember, her brothers Gabe and Zack also did their Jr. Genius project on the Steelers and Uncle Brett a few years ago.

View some photos from Abby’s presentation HERE.

 

March 17, 2013

HAPPY ST. PATRICK’S DAY

We hope Steeler Nation has a great St. Patrick’s Day! It’s great to see so many fans GO GREEN in their Da Beard Gear St. Patty’s Day t-shirts!

Today’s photo was sent by Randy Hyder, Lauren Hyder, Jesse Newcomer, Amanda Bach & crew. They were gettin’ their green beards on at The Pony Grill and Barin Sheridan, Wyoming.

View more photos of Da Beard Nation in their green gear HERE.

Thank you for the great response to the St. Patty’s Day shirts. They are officially SOLD OUT!

Please have a fun, and safe St. Patrick’s Day!

We also would like to wish Brett’s mother, Connie a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY today!

 

March 6, 2013

DA BEARD GEAR WORLD TOUR

Da Beard Gear merchandise sure does get around! We’ve had photos sent from Wyoming, Utah, India, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Florida, Afghanistan and Peru…just to name a few.

We are glad to see the awesome response to the St. Patrick Day t-shirts. Get your orders in soon so your shirt will arrive by St. Patty’s Day!

Today’s news photo is from Joseph Mescia…lookin’ good in green!

Click HERE to see fans (and Brett’s teammates) sporting their Da Beard Gear.

Da Beard Nation has also been tweeting about their extra surprises they received when placing an order through Da Beard Gear. For the month of February, any online order was eligible for a free item, which could include merchandise (some signed) and autographed photos. Visit Brett’s official Twitter feed to see the photos.

Champions for Children event:

“Always an enjoyable time at the Homless Children’s Education Fund Champions For Children event. Met a lot of people making a difference for our community.” —Brett

The Homeless Children’s Education Fund (HCEF) held their annual event this past Monday. Brett and his wife, Sarah attended as honored guests. They are past recipients of the HCEF Champions for Children award. This is an annual award given for having a significant positive impact on the lives of children and youth experiencing homelessness in Allegheny County.

Read more about their involvement with HCEF by clicking on the “Brett in the Community” tab above.

 

February 22, 2013

STEELER NATION SPOTLIGHT

We have seen Keisel’s mug as a tattoo, on salsa, shirts and many have used the name Keisel for their children…but this fan took it to another level!

John Vosburgh can actually say Da Beard has his back…or his truck’s back that is.

John’s “Steelers” themed truck leaves no question of who his favorite NFL team is, or who is favorite player is. From the inside to the outside, there are signs of Steelers gear.

The most prominent is the rear of his truck where the vinyl graphic of “Fear Da Beard” is displayed.

The vinyl graphic of Pittsburgh Steeler Brett “Da Beard” Keisel was created from a photo of an original oil painting by artist Scott Spillman and produced by Signature Graphics, Tempe, AZ.

I am sure John’s amazing truck garners a lot of looks, but Da Beard’s scary stare may also prevent tailgating!

We loved seeing the Da Beard Gear sticker also!

Thank you to John for sharing his photos. Click HERE for a closer look of today’s news photo, and at several other angles of the “Fear Da Beard” truck.

 

February 17, 2013

THE POWER OF THE BEARD

Brave the Shadow for Dave:

Bob Work (shown in today’s news photo) contacted us several months ago about his event which was inspired by Brett’s Shear Da Beard event.

He (and several others) would be shaving their hair to raise money in honor of a friend who lost his battle with cancer.

Here are a few details about our shave event. Inspired by ‘Da Beard’, we decided to hold our own shaving event here in Central New York. It was called: bravetheshavefordave. Money was raised in honor of our friend Dave Lennon, who passed away last year at the age of 43 from cancer. We had about 80 people who courageously came out and battled the snow to attend.

All totaled we raised over $3000.00 for Cancer Research and a Scholarship Fund for students graduating from Dave’s High School. We had quite a few people jump in spontaneously the day of the event! We had 5 people shave their heads including one brave woman. One of Dave’s friends, Paula, went without shaving her legs for 5 long months just to take it off for our event. And of course, quite a few beards were grown out to be shearred that day as well!

The event was a big hit and we are already getting requests to see if this is going to be an annual event. Every little bit we do, can hopefully, take us closer to finding a cure and maybe even irradicate cancer all together. Cancer is a terrible thing that has affected us all, and for one day we felt like we could do something about it.

So, thank you and Brett for your continued support. Bob

Thank you Bob and all who attended and participated in Brave the Shadow for Dave! We hope the event continues annually!

Benjamin Beard

The following email comes from Holly Wagner:

I wanted to write you and tell you about our youngest son and the “Benjamin Beard”.

Our son Benjamin was born on 12-27-12. He was born with congenital heart defects. He has been at children’s since the day he was born. Today he finally had his repair surgery completed.

This is where the “Benjamin beard” comes in. My husband is not shaving his beard until we bring our precious Benjamin home. As you can see it has gotten to be pretty beefy over the past 6 weeks. He reminds me of Brett with the big bushy beard.

Holly also sent an update today:

I wanted to update you on Benjamin. He had his repair surgery last Monday. Since our little fighter has had 3 cardiac arrests and has kept fighting! He is on life support and we thing things are moving towards a transplant. But yet this tiny baby fights on. He is such a miracle!

Please keep Benjamin and his family in your thoughts and prayers!

We appreciate Holly sharing her story and photos with us.

“Benjamin Beard” is another example of the power of Da Beards!

 

February 15, 2013

WE HAVE A WINNER

We had over 5,000 amazing entries, so choosing a winner was tough. Scott Spillman helped us judge and he was so impressed that he graciously donated a second set of cards so we could have TWO winners!

The question: “What does it mean, to you, to be a Steelers fan?

The winning entries:

It was a late December game in the beautiful old ash tray that was Three Rivers Stadium. I was home from college on winter break and my pop scored two tickets to go to church together on a cold, windy winter day. I don’t think the boys were in the playoffs that year, but it didn’t matter. Nor did it matter that our seats were way up in the top tier of the 500’s, literally the second to last row of the stadium. What did matter was that I was going to see the Steelers with my old man, and there ain’t nothing else like that in the world.

The first half was relatively normal, albeit cold…the kind of cold that seeps right up through the black and gold blankets you have laid down on the ice cold plastic seats. At halftime we went to get some nachos and the like and returned to our upper echelon of football fantasy. Then, it began snowing. Hard. So hard that they brought out snow plows to clear the out of bounds lines around the field. Apparently the players could not see the hash marks. We could barely see anything either, save for the best uniforms in all of football blurring in and out of a cyclone of white.

I don’t remember if we won, I don’t remember if it ever stopped snowing. And I don’t remember if my Dad knew I was sneaking sips of his Iron City or not. I do remember walking in the door to our house and greeting my Mom and Brother with a smile wider than the Monongahela. I remember looking at my lil bro and telling him that the next game was his.

Being a fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers is about family, tradition, and roots.

It’s about knowing where your friends and family are every Sunday in the fall, and knowing exactly what they are doing. It’s about your loving, incredible girlfriend giving up those Sunday afternoons in the fall to a bunch of big, sweaty men.

It’s about your Ma being around three boys on those Sundays and putting up with them whether they win or lose. It’s not about rich or poor, or where you come from, or the color of your skin. It is about joining together as one, in support of one.

It’s about having hero’s who don’t just leave their mark on the field, but off it as well.

It’s about the Terrible Towel. It’s about Myron Cope. It’s about the Rooney’s. It’s about a city.

A beautiful city that was nearly uprooted with the fall of the mills. A beautiful city that saw a lot if it’s inhabitants move away to find work, but continue to love their Steelers no matter where they are.

It’s about Steeler Nation, and having representation and a place to watch the game all over the country. It’s about realizing that seventy-five percent of your t-shirts have only two colors on them. It’s about believing and winning and losing and team work. It’s about learning some fundamentals of what it means to be a person, at a very young age.

It’s about learning how to fill the void that is the offseason. It’s about being in fear for your life from the long arm of the law. It’s about being in fear for men who line up opposite from the law of The Beard.

It’s about 20 division championships. It’s about 8 AFC Championships. It’s about 6 Lombardi’s. It’s about one team, and one city. It’s about a countless Nation.

And then, of course, it’s about that little part that’s indescribable. That feeling that rushes through you when you see the boys in black and gold running out of the tunnel. It can only be described, for lack of a better term, as magical.

I believe Jack Lambert said it best… “If I could start my life all over again, I would be a professional football player, and you damn well better believe I would be a Pittsburgh Steeler.”

This is what it means, to me, to be a Pittsburgh Steeler fan. And I consider myself damn lucky to be born into this family.Mike Mihm

Winner #2:

To me, being a Steelers fan is more than just rooting on the team and waving my terrible towel, its a lifestyle, a friendship, a passion, a family…a bond.

I cheer for the Steelers, pray for them, support the causes the players get involved in, wish them well, feel sad when they are down, stand up for them when people try to bring them down and I’m happy when they are being the best they can be. I bleed black n yellow!

I became a Steelers fan after listening to the games on the radio. I loved Myron Cope, I loved everything he was about and I could hear his love for the Steelers echo thru the radio speakers. I was just a young girl then, but he made me fall in love with football and the greatest team; the Steelers. One of the greatest feeling I’ve ever experienced was being at Heinz Field, surrounded by thousands of other Steelers fans, surrounded by what seems like family. Being a Steelers fan is about dedication, unity, and love…”Steel lightens your work, brightens your leisure and widens your world…”Jen Seal

Close contenders:

We had SO many worthy entries and we wanted to share a few with you:

What does it mean, to you, to be a Steelers fan.” Its a lifestyle,its a seven days a week,24 hours a day 365 days a year obession.Good teams,bad teams and in between.Its going to camp to watch them and meet some players after.Its saving coins or mad money or selling what you need (short of selling my first born)to buy tickets for games.Its traveling all over for a chance for a autograph or giving blood to Central blood bank to be in their locker room. Its following the players on twitter and facebook.Its checking their fan sites like Brett’s and Ben’s.Its never getting enough.It never,never,never gets old.Its what I do,who I am.Its a lifetime thing.Leslie S. Slack

It means:

Early fall goosebumps. Neverending watercooler discourse. Sunday morning nerves. Jerseys on casual Friday. Black and gold x-mas ornaments. Renegade on the iPad. Gameday rituals. Solitary fistpumps and city-wide celebrations. Everything.— Drew

It’s FAMILY. It’s knowing no matter where you are in the USA or abroad, when you run into someone else wearing the Black & Gold, (and you ALWAYS run into someone..) it’s an immediate smile, a hello and a Here We Go! Steeler Nation is an extension of the locker room- we support our guys by supporting each other. We’re a big group of friends…that haven’t all been formally introduced. Annette Filippone

It means strength, blue collar … The look in the eyes of your favorite players and know that on every game day, every series, every snap, that they are going to give you everything that they have. It means tradition … that, win or lose, you can hold your head high, knowing you are a part of a fan base that doesn’t fracture at the lose of a game or a down year. You know from history that nothing will keep them down and that they will learn from mistakes and come back stronger and that YOUR fan base will grow bigger as it has in my family not only from the hard work you have shown on the field, but for the lives you have changed off the field. Fear Da Beard!!!Steven Gilmore

It means I am part of something larger than myself that stands for history, dedication, tradition, hard work, giving back, success, and a blue collar work ethic. Oh and cool guys with awesome beards.James Angerett

Those were just a few of the thousands of entries. Every entry was different and wonderful and we wish we could post them all. They will be saved and may be used at a later date one the site, so thank you all!

Thank you also to Scott Spillman, Haydee Sampedro and Anne Cooper for assisting us in judging the contest.

If you are interested in purchasing the cards, or any of Scott’s prints, visit his site here .

First photo was designed by HowlingWolf79.

 

February 12, 2013

CONTEST TIME

To thank fans for all their support for Shear Da Beard, we wanted to hold a contest to raffle off a set of Scott Spillman’s Game Face series cards. So many fans were not able to attend the event where the “Fear Da Beard” print was raffled, or they attended and did not win the raffle, so now is your chance to try to win a set of Steeler Cards (which includes a smaller version of the “Fear Da Beard” print).

Steelers “GAME FACE” collectors cards are a set of six high quality 5″ x 7″ collectors cards made from Scott Spillman’s original paintings of many of your favorite Steeler players.

Please note..the cards do NOT come framed. I believe the frame you see in the photo can be found at places like Hobby Lobby.

How do you enter to win?

E-mail: [email protected] with the answer to this question:

What does it mean, to you, to be a Steelers fan.”

There obviously is no right or wrong answer here. We’re looking for a GREAT reason to give you this one-of-a-kind set of cards, so dazzle us with your answer!

The deadline to enter is 5:00 p.m. on February 13, 2013. No entries will be accepted after that time. Good luck!

Please only email the address of this site, which is listed above. You can also access the email by clicking on Contact at the top of this page. No entries will be accepted through any of the social media pages.

Please, one email per email address only (subsequent emails from the same address will be discounted).

Thank you so much to Scott Spillman for donating a set of cards to give away for this contest. Mr. Spillman has such a generous heart and donates to many Steelers events every year. He has been a great supporter of Mr. Keisel and his website for many years and we greatly appreciate him. Please take the time to visit Scott’s website.

 

February 8, 2013

MORE FROM SHEAR DA BEARD 2013

The event is over, fans have gone home, and Da Beard is gone.

However, Da Beard will live on forever as it helps cancer programs for kids at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh UPMC..

“The beard is becoming a symbol of hope for our kids in our cancer centers.”Christopher Gessner, president, Children’s Hospital.

Many parents, and children, who are or have been patients at Children’s Hospital have also sent thank you emails and messages for all the work Keisel does to support them.

The children got together to send a special gift for Keisel to thank him for all he (and Da Beard) do to support them.

“To know one player in particular, and the Steelers as a whole organization, is thinking about them and doing something just for them not only helps with the financial impact, but it really lifts the spirits of all of the kids. The people here view his huge mammoth beard as a sign of his affection for Children’s Hospital and his support for all of our patients. They love it.

You see a lot of fake beards being worn by the kids for solidarity and team spirit.”Dr. Jake Cooper, an attending physician in hematology and oncology.

Quotes courtesy of Steelers.com

A few more photo moments from last night:

Brett’s 4-year-old son had the honor of being the very first to Shear Da Beard last night.

Jacob and his mother, Sarah were welcomed to the stage, and the crowd cheered Jacob on as he got the first swipe.

Afterwards the camera caught a touching moment between Brett and Jacob.

Brett also later commented that his daughter, Grace, did not recognize him when she first saw his cleanly shaven face. He said he had to talk to her a bit so she could recognize him by his voice.

Aaron Smith and his son, Elijah, attend the event each year. Elijah is shown here getting his turn to Shear Da Beard.

The idea to shave it the last three years to benefit Children’s Hospital’s cancer programs arose because of his friendship with former teammate Aaron Smith, whose son Elijah was treated for leukemia at the hospital.

“Aaron Smith taught me so much about being a man, football and living. Their family got a lot of help from children’s hospital. I am giving back in honor of them and what they have done for me in my life.” Keisel

What does Aaron Smith think of Da Beard being gone?

“He’ll probably shave it tonight, and tomorrow have half a beard back… he’s like a Chia Pet!”Aaron Smith

Ben Roethlisberger attended the event to help Shear Da Beard.

We noticed he wore a little something extra in addition to his “Shear Da Beard” t-shirt.

Ben wore elbow-length gloves as he cut a snippet of Keisel’s beard.

He joked saying the gloves were because he sits next to Keisel at team meetings and knows all of the food Brett has eaten that day ends up in his famous Da Beard!

I just loved this photo of Mr. Rooney with Brett.

You can see a larger version of it, along with all the others in thePHOTO GALLERY.

Video:

The Steelers put together a great video tribute from last night. Watch it HEE.

Special thanks:

We want to say thank you to Jergel’s Rhythm Grille for providing the venue for Shear Da Beard III. They did an amazing job and everyone had a great time.

Also, thank you to WDVE and Randy Baumann, Eat’n Park, Da Beard Gear, SportClips, Diehl Automotive Group, The Pittsburgh Steelers, Children’s Hospital UPMC and Head & Shoulders for Men.

Thank you to artists Scott Spillman and Denny Karchner for their generous donations of prints for the auction and to Brett’s teammates and coaches, along with Dan Rooney, for their donations and contributions to the auction. Thank you to Chris Higbee, Donnie Iris and Randy Baumann for their performances.

We also want to give a BIG thank you to ALL who attended the event and all who donated to it. Without your support this event would not be possible.

As Big Ben said last night, “ONLY IN PITTSBURGH!”

 

February 7, 2013

DA BEARD IS SHEARED

Da Beard is gone. Thanks to all those who participated!

For the third year straight, Brett sheared his beloved Da Beard to benefit Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh UPMC.

From Teresa Varley, Steelers.com:

The classic rock song “Renegade,” the anthem of the Steelers’ defense, blasted over the loud speakers, fans were decked out in black and gold, and there was excitement and anticipation in the air.

It might sound like the atmosphere at Heinz Field on game day, but instead it was the crowd at Jergel’s Rhythm Grille on hand to watch Steelers’ defensive end Brett Keisel shave his beard. Yes, a packed house to watch someone shave their beard. “This is what makes Pittsburgh special,” said Keisel. “They have grasped on to this idea and really made it what it is today. If the fans didn’t respond to it the way they did, I wouldn’t do it.”

“Brett’s beard really has taken on a life of it’s own and Shear Da Beard has become a great annual event to support cancer programs and research at Children’s Hospital,” said Christopher Gessner, president, Children’s Hospital. “We’re extremely grateful to Brett, and more importantly to his wife Sarah for letting him grow the beard back each season.”

Keisel began growing the beard before the start of the season and promised to not shave it off until season’s end. The idea to shave it to benefit Children’s Hospital’s cancer programs arose because of his friendship with former teammate Aaron Smith, whose son Elijah was treated for leukemia at the hospital. Keisel knows what great care the Smith family received at the hospital and this is his way of giving back.

“I think it speaks to what team is and what this team is,” said Tomlin of Keisel’s reason for choosing Children’s Hospital to benefit from the fun event. “We care for one another and it provides avenues where we can share personal trials and learn from them and see the platform and opportunity we have to help others.”

Read Ms. Varley’s entire article, complete with a picture of Keisel-minus Da Beard- here.

Brett had a few surprise, celebrity barbers stop in to help Shear Da Beard. HEEAATTHH Miller, Ben Roethlisberger, Cam Heyward, Coach Tomlin, Coach LeBeau, Coach Mitchell, Charlie Batch, Aaron Smith and Mr. Rooney all got a chance to take a swipe at Da Beard. The cutest celebrity barber of all was Brett’s son, Jacob who had the honor of being first to shear Da Beard!

Photo Gallery:

You can view some photos from the event here.

We will add more photos, news and hopefully video as they become available!

 

February 6, 2013

LESS THAN 24 HOURS…

…Til Da Beard is sheared!

“The End is near.”–Keisel

Brett will have Da Beard sheared by some awesome celebrity surprise barbers tomorrow night at Jergel’s Rhythm Grille in front of a SOLD OUT crowd.

All proceeds will benefit Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh UPMC.

The crowd will enjoy great food, drinks, entertainment, and of course the LIVE shearing of Da Beard!

We could also be treated to Keisel joining the WDVE crew to sing their famous hit “Fear Da Beard”!

The Da Beard Gear crew will be there with merchandise so feel free to stop by to say hello!

We appreciate all who purchased tickets to help benefit such an amazing cause.

The event will have an auction for some great one-of-a-kind memorabilia. One item being auctioned is a print of “Fear Da Beard” by artist Scott Spillman.

“Chance to win a print of this Spillman original that resides in my house tomorrow at Shear Da Beard!”Da Beard

Take a moment to visit the website of Scott Spillman .

You can order a “Fear Da Beard” print and more. He has a great Game Face Series of prints which include fan favorites such as, Hines Ward, James Harrison and Ben Roethlisberger. All are very reasonably priced.

Mr. Spillman graciously donates prints to many Steelers events to be auctioned for charity.

Shear Da Beard sponsors include: Da Beard Gear, SportClips, WDVE, Diehl Automotive Group, The Pittsburgh Steelers and Children’s Hospital UPMC. Also, special thanks to Northwest Savings Bank for their current promotion (along with Keisel): “Put on Da Beard for Da Kids.” Information is on the right side of this page.

 

February 5, 2013

DA BEARD SAYS THANK YOU

Da Beard launched a campaign to raise money for Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh UPMC. With the help of Northwest Savings Bank, their patrons and Brett’s fans, Da Beard’s campaign was HUGE!

From Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh UPMC:

Thanks to Northwest Savings Bank who presented a donation of $35,000 to Children’s Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology on behalf of their “Da Beard” campaign with Steelers defensive end Brett Keisel! In December and January, Northwest Savings Bank patrons donated $1 or more and had the opportunity to write their own name and message on the iconic image of Keisel’s beard. The beards were then displayed in the bank offices. Thanks again for your support!

And, from Da Beard:

Thanks to Northwest Savings Bank and all those who participated in the Da Beard campaign! 35K to Oncology/Hematology at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh UPMC!

Steeler Nation and Da Beard Nation came through once again!

The Countdown is ON…

Brett is set to shear Da Beard at Jergel’s on Thursday. Once again, all funds raised will go to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh UPMC.

The event is SOLD OUT!

The Da Beard crew will be on hand selling merchandise, so be sure to stop by and say hello!

 

January 30, 2013-evening update

NEWEST MANE MAN

Meet Head & Shoulders newest Mane Man, C.J. Wilson!

From Michael Sabbia, H & S Brand Manager:

This season Head & Shoulders launched the Troy Polamalu School of Deeper Learning, an online university with Troy, Brett Keisel and comedian Rob Riggle serving as instructors. Fans all season long have gone to Deepliketroy.org to gain insight on ways to get deep in their lives.

Super Bowl week serves as a “graduation” of sorts, where we will be finishing the semester/season as the “Official Shampoo of the NFL” and get started on our third season working with Major League Baseball as their “Official Shampoo.”

Da Beard welcomes the newest Mane Man:

This season I’ve had the pleasure to serve as Dean of Students and Professor of Facial Hair at the Troy Polamalu School of Deeper Learning.

C.J. Wilson is the latest Head & Shoulders Mane Man. I’m excited to have C.J. Wilson join Troy and me as the newest Head & Shoulders mane man. He has some great hair, but his beard needs some work!

Hangin’ with Rod Woodson:

Keisel and Rod Woodson on Radio Row in New Orleans.

Photo courtesy of Chris Law, NFL Producer @TheEisenPodcast @NFLFantasy.

Da Beard’s keys to a great beard:

Click here for Keisel’s “three components of awesomeness.”

Check out the post below for more news on Da Beard’s adventures today!

 

January 30, 2013

THE FUN IN NOLA CONTINUES

Brett and Da Beard continued their walk of Radio Row today as hair correspondents with Head & Shoulders for Men.

Brett talked about the upcoming Super Bowl, how tough it is to be there and not play..especially when his arch rival’s are playing, and he spoke of his time with Head & Shoulders.

It’s my second year working with Head & Shoulders and it’s been deep. This season, Troy and I, along with comedian Rob Riggle, taught a series of online courses at DeepLikeTroy.org– Keisel

SVP & Russillo:

Brett joined Scott Van Pelt and Ryen Russillo on air today.

He was asked who he wanted to win the Super Bowl this year:

“It’s tough…we beat them (the Ravens) with Charlie Batch. They’re bitter rivals for us. But, the 49’ers are goin’ for a 6-pack..we like walkin’ around sayin’, ‘Hey man, we’re the only ones with the Iron City 6-pack.’ So, I hope it’s a 20-overtime tie.”

He does feel the Ravens will pull out the win though 24-17.

Find out why HERE.

Brett also compares his beard to Troy Polamalu’s hair, saying the “hair” is much more humble than the “beard”. We encourage fans to visit Deepliketroy.org to earn their degree from the School of Deeper Learning.

If you have not watched Troy Polamalu School of Deeper Learning videos, then click on over to the website. Very entertaining (and enlightening)!

The Doug Gottlieb Show:

Brett spoke with Doug Gottlieb about what happened with the Steelers this season, saying they didn’t make enough splash plays. He feels the team is very close to returning to the Super Bowl:

“We have a lot of great young talent.”

Spies are everywhere:

Watch the mischief Da Beard got into while in New Orleans

Brett’s time in NOLA is almost done. We’ll post a photo gallery soon of his adventures.

 

January 29, 2013

DA BEARD HITS RADIO ROW

Da Beard had a busy day today hitting all the stops on Radio Row for Media Week. He is there as a hair correspondent for Head & Shoulders for Men.

I tried to keep up with all his interviews, but I may have missed a few. Below are some of the highlights with links to podcasts, if available.

The Herd with Colin Cowherd:

We know Colin is in awe of Da Beard, so interviews are always fun for Brett on The Herd.

Brett comments on his favorite memory from the Super Bowl (it’s a good one), Pittsburgh’s inconsistent season, what facing the Ravens is like, Joe Flacco, Ray Lewis and more.

Click HERE to listen.

First Take:

Skip Bayless, Stephen A. Smith and Steelers DE Brett Keisel discuss Joe Flacco’s contract status with the Ravens.

Click HERE to listen.

He also is asked to rate Ravens QB Joe Flacco and said ” I don’t think he’s as good as Ben (Roethlisberger). ”

The Rise, 95.7 The Game-with The Rise Guys:

Brett Keisel joined The Rise Guys and said that he wants the 49ers to lose the Super Bowl, so they don’t match his Steelers with their 6th Championship ring.

Thee problem is, he doesn’t want the Ravens to win either!

He also talks about being on Dib’s Mount Beard-More.

And, Mount Beard-More…Da Beard made the list, but who else joins him?

Listen to where Da Beard ranks on Dib’s Mount Beard-More HERE.

790-The Zone:

Brett talks about his legendary beard, Head and Shoulders for Men and of course about the Pittsburgh Steelers and what it’s like to win a Super Bowl.

Click HERE to listen.

Fox Sports Radio with Jay Mohr:

What is the best thing Da Beard has had to eat since arriving in New Orleans? What question would he ask players during Media Week? Does he shampoo his beard with Head & Shoulders for Men? Also, what is the favorite sport of Brett’s son?

Find out HERE.

Keisel also talks about wanting to get to another Super Bowl..and he gives a shout out to Greybull High School, Snow College and BYU.

Who is Da Beard rooting for in SB 47…

He said he can’t root for Baltimore, but he doesn’t want San Francisco to get a 6-pack. So, he said feels Ravens will win..but is rooting for a tie.

Brett had a couple more interviews today, and will have more tomorrow. We’ll get podcasts posted soon!

 

January 28, 2013

DA BEARD TACKLES MEDIA WEEK

My beard and I are headed back to the Super Bowl Media Day as Head & Shoulders “Hair Correspondent.

I’m looking to get to the root of Sunday’s deepest storylines, from pre-game hair rituals to stand out NFL beards. –Keisel

Brett… and Da Beard are heading to SB XLVII Media Week!

He will be there as a “Hair Correspondent” with Head & Shoulders for Men.

Brett attended Media Week last year and was a big hit on shows such as Mike and Mike, The Herd and more.

He will be appearing this year on numerous shows Tuesday and Wednesday. We will post podcasts and photos, when available.

Brett and the Head and Shoulders for Men team will be announcing a surprise also..so be sure to catch him LIVE from Radio Row tomorrow and Wednesday!

 

January 25, 2013-evening update

FAN LOVIN’ FRIDAY

An inspirational fan:

Meet Lupita Garcia, a proud mother, wife and member of Steeler and Da Beard Nation!

Lupita has been fighing ovarian, cervical and breast cancer for over three years.

From Lupita:

It’s me, Lupita from Facebook. Thank you for responding to me. I feel blessed to just have you acknowledge me. I’ve been a Steelers fan forever and love the beard.

As you can see, I am batting an epic battle against cancer. It hasn’t been easy, but I do my best. I hope to one day be cancer free..hopefully soon.

Lupita made a video (we’ll see if she can post it on Facebook for all to see), with her daughter. She was asked what message she wanted to impart to others battling cancer:

To never give up..to never lose hope, because hope is unstoppable.

She credits her family, friends (including her Facebook fans) for giving her support, positive affirmations and feels cancer has brought her closer to everyone in her life.

Another thing which turned “bad” days into “good” ones, is her Relay for Life pillow.

It was a comfort to me when I was fighing chemo and I was feeling sick.

Lupita and her family would like to start a foundation to provide Relay for Life pillows to others fighing cancer or any battle. They need help naming the foundation and spreading the word. So, let’s help her out Steeler Nation!

You can visit Lupita on Facebook: mrsgarcia6801, or email her: [email protected]. Send her some positive thoughts or ideas for her Foundation!

Please tell Brett that I truly love him as a person and a player. My goal is to meet him one day.–Lupita

Thank you to Lupita Garcia for her inspirational story and for reminding us to NEVER LOSE HOPE!

Respect the Beard, Fear the Diesel:

This photo was sent to Brett from Marc Crudgington, via Twitter.

His son, Jake (shown with Jake’s brother Luke) is wearing the “Respect the Beard, Fear the Diesel” shirt.

Both boys look like they’ll be ready to take on a few O-Lineman in a few years!

Thank you to Marc, Jake and Luke for sharing the photo.

 

January 25, 2013

DA BEARD & CREW SAY THANKS

Da Beard and his crew want to say thank you Steeler Nation for all of your support…

So..they will be adding a BONUS in all orders placed during the month of February.

From now until the end of February we will be throwing in something for FREE with EVERY order that is placed in the online store! It could be anything from koozies, stickers, t-shirts, hats, hoodies or even autographed photos or t-shirts. It’s just our way of saying, “Thanks” to #DaBeardNation for all of your support and business throughout the past year. Happy shopping!!!

No exchanges or returns on freebie merchandise.

Now is a great time to stock up on your beard gear!

Click the STORE link above to enter the online store.

Today’s news photo is from Brett’s lovely niece Kelsi, and her adorable family.

As for me and my family, we cheer for DA BEARD!–Kelsi

Keisel didn’t have to look far for mentors:

We posted Brett’s mentoring story a few days ago (check the January 22 post).

What was Aaron Smith’s reaction to Keisel naming him as one of his mentors?

From Teresa Varley, Steelers.com:

“I am honored and a little shocked. I always had a way of doing things and you always hope that someone catches on to doing things that way, what I would consider the right way. I think he has done that and expanded on it even more.

That is something professional athletes should always hold on to. You don’t know whose life you will impact. I always just tried to lead by example. I always felt you would get more done by your actions than just by saying words. I am a big believer in that. It’s nothing I was looking to do, I just believed there was a way to conduct myself and be an example, especially for the younger guys.”

Read the entire article, and learn more about Brett’s other mentor, his uncle Ben Smith,HERE.

Stop back tonight for a Fan Lovin’ Friday post!

 

January 22, 2013

NATIONAL MENTORING MONTH

January is National Mentoring Month and the Steelers have partnered with The Mentoring Partnership to help shine a spotlight on mentoring.

Who mentored Brett Keisel?

Brett filmed a video with The Mentoring Partnership to discuss the person (people) who mentored him in his childhood and with the Steelers.

Click HERE to find out who mentored Keisel.

From Kristan Allen, with the Mentoring Partnersjip:

We were fortunate to have the opportunity to talk with Brett and learn more about his mentors. What a great story he shared! Brett was so gracious in participating and helping us spotlight mentoring during National Mentoring Month. It truly was an honor to meet and work with him…what a great guy!

More information on their goal

Mentoring is about providing extra support and encouragement to someone else. January is National Mentoring Month and we’re highlighting mentoring in the ‘Burgh. Did you know that more than 26,000 kids are currently being mentored by 140+ mentoring organizations in our community? That’s something to celebrate, but it’s important to remember that there is still a need for mentors. 988 kids in Pittsburgh are currently on waiting lists for a mentor and now is the perfect time to volunteer with a program and help eliminate the wait for a mentor. Contact The Mentoring Partnership to learn more about mentoring and volunteer opportunities in your neighborhood.

You can also keep up with their work, and help them raise awareness of mentoring in Pittsburgh by liking their Facebook Page and following their journey on Twitter.

Thank you so much to Kristan Allen for providing all of the information and photos/video. Thank you also to the Pittsburgh Steelers for their assistance. The Steelers will be highlighting The Mentoring Partnership and Brett’s involvement soon. We’ll let you know once it’s posted.

 

January 18, 2013

CATCHING UP

Playing catch-up on many news items today!

Good news…

Thanks to those of you who have purchased tickets to Shear Da Beard! Shear Da Beard is sold out. Da Beard Nation is strong and prompt! Keisel

For those who cannot attend, don’t worry..we’ll post photos here on the website.

Also, if you cannot attend, but want to still make a donation in honor of Da Beard, you can do so HERE.

Please remember, the event is for those 21 and older. Also, no outside autograph items permitted into the event.

Shear Da Beard sponsors include: Da Beard Gear, SportClips, WDVE, Diehl Automotive Group, The Pittsburgh Steelers and Children’s Hospital UPMC. Also, special thanks to Northwest Savings Bank for their current promotion (along with Keisel): “Put on Da Beard for Da Kids.” Information is on the right side of this page.

Fan messages:

We wanted to share a few messages sent by fans to Brett over the last week or so.

Thanks Brett for making my grandsons day / year. He was #56 for the coin toss at the season finale and we got the picture from the paper today of you walking out on the field with him. You were looking at each other and we could tell he was in awe of you. He is a young 3 sport athlete and he looks for positive role models. Thanks for being that. You are a class act. He is a student of each sport. —Rick Lambing

Thank you to Mr. Lambing for sending us a great photo of his grandson with Brett.

Hey Brett, I just want to say, that I am a huge fan of the steelers, always have been, always will be. However, you and Heaaaathhhh are my two favorite players of all time. I work at the Omni William Penn and have made you guys dinner every Saturday (you were home) throughout this rough season, and served you breakfast several Sundays. It has been an Honor and privilege to say I cooked for and met guys as amazing as you and Heath. Keep up the hard work, and keep growin that beard, we love it!!!!— Cody Emerson West

Brett, they say in life your occupation is what you DO…not who you are… In your case, I would have to disagree with that statement. There are all sorts of men that walk onto a football field on any given Sunday and they are there to perform a job just like everyone else. The passion you show for the sport of football on and off the field as well as the compassion you show toward the general public with the charity work you do exemplifies what a roll model and professional athlete is made up of and makes you who your are. Seeing the good that can come out of the game has driven me to coach Football for young boys and girls for the last 5 years to have the opportunity not only to make them good athletes on the field…but good upstanding members of the public by showing them the sportsmanship that you and your team mates show us every Sunday. I have been a Steeler fan since April 22nd, 1974 and because of players like you, the Rooney organization and the standards they set for their franchise….a Steeler fan is all I will ever be. Win, lose, or draw…its Steeler Nation all the way!! Come back in 2013 healthy and ready to win! Happy New Year!Mike Drog

Thanks for all the hard work you put in everyday. I know fans like me appreciate the interaction with the players. Get well soon!— Patrick Shushereba

Thank you for all the wonderful emails and messages!

Da Beard is happy hockey is BACK:

I LOVE that the Pens are back! This is amazing. Pittsburgh has packed Consol for the scrimmage. Not surprised.Keisel, who attended the scrimmage on Wednesday.

Good luck this season to the Pittsburgh Penguins!

View their website and schedule HERE.

 

January 8, 2013-evening update

ARCHERY TRADE ASSOCIATION SHOW 2013

Brett joined Ben Roethlisberger and Merril Hoge today at the Archery Trade Assocation Show (ATA) in Kentucky. From the ATA website:

The ATA Trade Show is the archery and bowhunting industry’s LARGEST show. It’s also the industry’s MOST INCLUSIVE show. The ATA Trade Show is a member-driven event to promote commerce within the archery and bowhunting industry. Owned and operated by the ATA, the show is closed to the public and is an order writing event.

Tommy Troyer, of T.R.U. Ball Archery, tweeted today’s news photo from the show saying:

Hanging with Big Ben, Brett Keisel, and Merril Hoge. #awesomeweek2013 #ifeelsmall”

Amy Hatfield, from ATA website tweeted a photo with Keisel, calling his beard the “baddest beard in football.”

Brett also spoke with Matt Coffey, Archery Times, about his visit to the ATA Show.

He discusses why he attended the show, what type of gear he was interested in and when he finds time to hunt.

You can read some from his interview HERE.

Sounds like it was a good trip for Keisel and company, along with all who attended the show.

Keisel also stopped by to visit The Bowdudes where he took a photo with Brett Nelson.

From the Bowdudes website: The Bowdudes are just a bunch of average guys who love archery. We compete, hunt and work on our own equipment. We didn’t invent archery, everything we know we’ve learned from someone else…JUST LIKE EVERYONE ELSE IN MODERN DAY ARCHERY!!!!

If you enjoy Archery and Bowhunting, be sure to visit the sites mentioned in today’s post for all the latest news.

Thank you to all who posted and sent photos! Looked like everyone had a great day.

Shear Da Beard 2013:

Information on the event is listed below in today’s earlier news post.

 

January 8, 2013

SHEAR DA BEARD III

Mountain Man Makeover…

“We wanna pack Da House…so Pittsburgh let’s rally…let’s raise some money for Pittsburgh Children’s Hospital UPMC.–Keisel, from an interview on WDVE this morning.

Yes, Steeler Nation…it’s that time of year again. Da Beard’s days are numbered!

Da Beard will once again be sheared to benefit cancer programs at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh UPMC.

Event information:

Date: February 7, 2013

Location: Jergel’s Rhythm Grille

Time: Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Shearing to commence at 7:00 p.m.

Tickets: Purchase tickets HERE.

Entertainment: Provided by Chris Higbee and Donnie Iris. Also, Brett and the WDVE crew “hinted” we could hear a live performance of “Fear Da Beard”!

Tickets are $25, and include admission to the one-of-a-kind event, first drink and complimentary appetizers, courtesy of Jergel’s.

The event will host a live and silent auction, which will include amazing items! There will also be surprise celebrity barbers appearing to SHEAR DA BEARD!

You won’t want to miss this awesome chance to be up close with Keisel (and Da Beard), the GREAT cast of celebrity barbers, delicious food, huge array of auction items, incredible entertainment … and of course the chance to witnesss …THE SHEARING OF DA BEARD!

FYI:This is a 21 and older event. Also, no outside autograph items permitted into the event.

To view a larger version of the Shear Da Beard photo, click HERE.

Shear Da Beard sponsors include: Da Beard Gear, SportClips, WDVE, Diehl Automotive Group, The Pittsburgh Steelers and Children’s Hospital UPMC. Also, special thanks to Northwest Savings Bank for their current promotion (along with Keisel): “Put on Da Beard for Da Kids.” Information is on the right side of this page.

 

January 2, 2013

LOOKING IN THE REARVIEW MIRROR

Well, 2013 is here and the Steelers are in the unusual position of not being in the playoffs.

The team still gave us a lot to cheer for throughout the 2012 season!

We decided to take a “look in the rearview mirror” to highlight some of the fun moments of the season that was 2012, as we start looking forward to the 2013 season.

Keisel had a really good season, and in case you missed any of it, we’ll recap some of it.

This ranks among his best seasons with a team-high 40 quarterback pressures and 4.5 sacks.

Brett also led the defensive linemen with 46 tackles.

These are the official numbers listed by the NFL. Although, I counted a few more tackles.

Starting with…

Training Camp 2012:

Fans, teammates and media have discussed what vehicle Keisel would drive into camp this year. Not sure any of them guessed correctly.

Players have been arriving at camp in over-sized SUVs, luxury sports cars and the like, but defensive end Brett Keisel made the entrance of the day in a huge orange Kubota Tractor. Keisel pulled up behind the dorm then dumped his luggage from out of the front loader.–Via Steelers.com

Keisel also became a father for the third time at camp. He and his wife, Sarah welcomed a baby boy to their family.

Brett was a fan favorite at camp, signing autographs for kids, adults and he even had his own group of fans called, “Brett’s Bearded Beauties”!

Da Beard, along with his Da Beard Crew held a free autograph signing to thank fans for their support.

Captain Keisel:

Brett was named a Co-Captain of the 2012 team, along with quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.

I am honored to be named a captain of a storied franchise like the Pittsburgh Steelers. I’m really excited about this team. We’ve got a lot of quick, young talent. –Keisel

Season highlights:

The Steelers defense did not start off the season as expected. There were many injuries and they were not causing the turnovers as they had in the past. After Week one the former #1 defense was ranked #15.

We’ve got some things to work on. –Keisel, after the loss to Denver.

And work on it they did…a few weeks later, the defense climbed to #5.

Finally a stack of hotcakes. Good team Win! Onward and upward. It was Steeler weather. So we had to play Steeler football.–Keisel, following the 27-12 win over Washington.

Against the NY Giants:

From George Bretherton, The New York Times:

This time the moment came less than a month ago, and it seemed very real. It can best be described as the annual notion that the aging Steelers are on the road to decline.

Guess what? That idea looks wrong again.

On Oct. 11, red flags shot up when Tennessee tight end Jared Cook caught a third-down pass from Matt Hasselbeck with less than a minute to play against the Steelers.

The stunning 26-23 loss came two plays later when Titans kicker Rob Bironas made a 40-yard field goal as time expired.

Guess what? The Steelers haven’t lost or allowed a fourth-quarter touchdown since their Music City Meltdown. In the Steelers’ 24-20 victory on Sunday, they dominated in the fourth quarter, outscoring the Giants, 14-0, while not allowing them a first down.

Brett Keisel (34), Harrison (34) and Ryan Clark (33) sparked the Steelers’ defense on the Giants’ second series, another three-and-out that yielded only 3 yards.

Against KC:

What a game for #99! From the start of the game it was clear #99 was ready to go. He sacked Chiefs QB Matt Cassel twice, had at least four quarterback hurries (Keisel leads the team in QB pressures) and eight tackles on the night. He was all over the field last night and looked to have tipped the pass from Cassel in OT, which Steelers LB Lawrence Timmons intercepted to seal the win for the Steelers.

From the Twitter page of CBSSports-PIT:

“On third down, Matt Cassell saw nothing but Beard, and bowed down before it.”

Yes, for those who remember the penalty from the Bengals game, this is the SAME pose Keisel was penalized for..yet he’s done the pose for ELEVEN years with NO penalty!

Batch takes down the Ravens:

Charlie Batch, filling in for #7 due to injury, did what many (excluding his teammates) did not think he could do…lead his team to a win over the Baltimore Ravens.

I’m proud of him (Charlie Batch). We all believed he could do it. We’re a team in there….we trust each other..we beleive in each other.–Brett, following the win over Baltimore.

Back on top:

The Steelers defense, led by their beloved Coach LeBeau, climbed back on top at #1 by seasons end. They were eliminated from the playoffs after a loss to the Bengals, but the team did not throw in the towel. They went on to close their season out at Heinz Field with a “W”.

Keisel injured his MCL in the closing game against the Browns, and had to leave before halftime. Coach Tomlin stated it was an MCL sprain which would not require surgery.

Keisel Chatter:

From Bleacher Reports: “Brett Keisel led all defensive linemen with 46 total tackles, and he was third on the team with 4.5 sacks. Keisel’s play also forced most teams to run the other way and towards Ziggy Hood.

From Ed Bouchette, on being asked if the Steelers needed to get younger at the DE position:“Keisel is their best and most productive defensive end, so don’t be in a hurry to push him out the door.”

We 100% agree Ed!

There were many highlights in between what we’ve posted here. Feel free to scroll down this page, and hit the Archives page for a more detailed account of each game. You can also read about the amazing fan stories we received and Brett’s charity involvement with his own causes and those of his teammates.

Thank you Steeler Nation for all your support, win or lose, every week. Your involvement with the social media pages has been amazing and very appreciated, along with all your kind emails and messages. If you want to try to keep up with Keisel, which is not easy to do but well worth trying, click on the FB and Twitter links above (in the banner) to follow and like him.

Be sure to check in with us here on the website over the offseason to see what is going on with #99 and the Da Beard Gear crew!

We will post some photos and news on the events Keisel attended to support his teammates soon.

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