Welcome to Steelers Takeaways!

First, tell me about your role as Player Relations Coordinator for the University of Georgia – how it got started and what you’re doing?

I’m here to help out the kids as they transition into college and after college.  To help them find that first job – whether it’s in the NFL or an internship or a job in corporate America. Preparing them for life outside of the NFL.

Was it a tough transition for you after football?

I think the transition is tough for everyone. For me, the key was having a plan. To have an idea of what I wanted to do. The big thing was, I got my degree. No matter who you are, football comes to an end.

Continue reading “Exclusive with Former Steelers Offensive LIneman Fernando Velasco, 2013”

First, can you let me know about the Golden Charter Academy – how that got launched and why you pursued this venture?

Throughout my time playing with the Steelers I always had a drive – a commitment to come back to my hometown and help children who are growing up in this area. I wanted to create an opportunity to help children by using the anti-bullying and mentoring programs I started when I was in Pittsburgh.

I had a mentor who told me that one day I could create a school like this for children. I told him that I wanted it to be completely different if I did. I wanted them to have hands-on learning and to show them that they are leaders right now.

Continue reading “Exclusive with Former Steelers Safety Robert Golden, 2012-2017”

First, can you let me know what you’ve been up to since your playing days?

Now, I’m the VP of Business Development at NAES – we operate power plants.  I work with hedge funds and equity mangers – folks like that.

I got into it by complete accident – around 25 years ago. I was working construction for my dad’s company when he decided to sell the business – he wanted to retire. So then I went to work for a water company. But a friend’s father told me that I should go work in the power business and I’ve been there since.

Continue reading “Exclusive with Former Steelers Tight End Glenn McCombs, 1986”

First, can you let me know how you got into coaching?

I always liked to be a man of the people, so to speak. I wanted to help the younger generation but didn’t know I’d end up doing so as a coach. I followed up playing with an NFLPA coaching internship and it went from there.

I spent a year playing for Saskatchewan in Canada after Pittsburgh, but after my third shoulder surgery I thought that was enough. I joined Frostburg State as an intern and am now at the University of Richmond. I enjoy being able to impact guys on the field, but also off the field with life skills as well.

Continue reading “Exclusive with Former Steelers Outside Linebacker Chris Ellis, 2010-2011”

First, what have you been up to since your time in Pittsburgh?

I’m working at the University of Miami now in their athletic department working on players development. I also have a shoe apparel company – Carella – where we create our own shoes. We have our own soles and silhouettes and create luxury shoes without the luxury prices. They are elegant but available for the average consumer.

It’s been fun. I’ve always been a creative person – I’ve enjoyed art, fashion, photography – so it’s cool to pursue during my journey now that I’m down playing.

Continue reading “Exclusive with Former Steelers Safety John Battle IV, 2020”