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Hartings: Steelers must ignore distractions
Jeff Hartings
Chaz Palla/Tribune-Review
By Joe Bendel
TRIBUNE-REVIEW
Sunday, June 11, 2006
On a steamy afternoon on the South Side, veteran Steelers center Jeff Hartings ambled from the practice field, beads of sweat dripping from his forehead.
He could probably think of better things to do in the heat, like sitting poolside with his family or lounging in an air conditioned clubhouse or catching a few rays at a white-sand beach.
Truth is, Hartings doesn't have to be here; he wants to be here.
And, in many ways, he is a symbol of what is going right with the Steelers organization, despite several off-field issues that have cropped up and made headlines in recent months.
Hartings, who turns 34 at the outset of the regular season, took a pay cut to return to the Steelers -- despite playing in the Pro Bowl in February. And even though he is a wealthy man, Hartings could have shopped his experience and leadership skills on the open market when discussions opened to restructure a deal that was to count $8.1 million against the salary cap next season.
But Hartings thought better of it.
"To be able to play for this team, this coach, this organization, I think players would be crazy not to take a little bit less than what they could get in the open market and be able to play for a winning team, a winning organization, a great city," said Hartings, who agreed to a two-year, $5.8 million deal that included a $1.75 million signing bonus and saved the Steelers $2.1 million under the cap. "The only negative I can think of on this team is having to play in the cold weather in December. And, sometimes, that can be a positive, too."
Guard Kendall Simmons, who lines up to the right of Hartings, said the veteran center's decision to rework his deal sent a strong message around the locker room.
"It told us that he wasn't selfish, that he was loyal and wanted to be a part of this," Simmons said. "It's important to know this is where he wants to be. He wants to be out there fighting with us."
Added backup quarterback Charlie Batch, who played with Hartings in Detroit: "This was a win-win for everybody. You want guys like that around."
Hartings is about to enter his 11th season, which could potentially be his last (though rumors of his retirement have been greatly exaggerated in the past).
"I still love being out here," Hartings said, despite 90-plus degree temperatures baking the grass last week after a voluntary workout.
He still wants to win another Super Bowl.
He wants to be a Pro Bowler again.
And most important, he still wants to be a Steeler -- a message he proudly proclaims.
"I make it known to young guys, when they become free agents, that this is a great place to be," said Hartings, who spent the first five years of his career with the Detroit Lions. "I definitely let them know that."
In March, Hartings watched as wideout Antwaan Randle El, free safety Chris Hope and defensive end Kimo von Oelhoffen signed lucrative deals in Washington, Tennessee and New York (Jets), respectively. And as much as it pained him to see three key elements of last year's Super Bowl winner move on, he faulted none of them for making prudent business decisions.
"Antwaan's contract was just so big, he had to take it, but I don't have any doubt he wanted to be here," Hartings said. "Even Kimo, I talked to Kimo. He would have loved to come back here. But when a team offers so much more than what the Steelers can offer, just because of the cap situation here, you have to look at those things. But I truly feel for those guys, because I don't have any doubt they wanted to stay."
With the makeup of the team changing, which includes the retirment of Jerome Bettis, Hartings believes the Steelers cannot afford to let off-the-field distractions -- such as rookie Santonio Holmes' recent disorderly conduct charge or Hines Ward's and Joey Porter's claims that the media has taken some their words out of context this offseason -- consume the locker room.
"I think anything can be a distraction; I think it can be an individual thing," he said. "If it does seep in, it would seep in to individuals, and, then, that always affects the team."
Hartings explained: "As individuals, you prepare and work hard to make yourself better," he said. "As coach (Bill) Cowher always says, if individuals do those things, then the team plays better. But if individuals on this team read too many of the press clippings, think too much about the ring, wear the ring too much and think about last year, then those individuals might get distracted and not play as well. And that, obviously, will affect how the team plays.
"I think the biggest trap you can fall into after winning the Super Bowl is going into training camp and thinking you're just going to pick up where you left off. Because you can find yourself looking at a 2-4 record, 3-4, 3-5, and then you're in a hole. And we probably wouldn't be able to dig ourselves out, because every team in our division, on paper, is better than it was a year ago."
Joe Bendel can be reached at [email protected] or (412) 320-7811.
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_457567.html
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Keisel enjoying his new role
Monday, June 12, 2006
By Teresa Varley
Steelers.com
It was about 15 minutes after the players have cleared the field during the team's voluntary coaching sessions when Brett Keisel made his way towards the locker room after getting in a little extra workout.
Sweat was pouring off of him as summer had finally hit in Pittsburgh and the warm sun had heated things up.
But he couldn't have be happier and for good reason.
Keisel, who is entering his fifth season, will be a starter at defensive end this year after Kimo von Oelhoffen signed as a free agent with the New York Jets. It's an opportunity he has been waiting for and he enjoyed every practice, every workout, as he lines up with the first team during the recently completed coaching sessions.
"I am so excited. It's been great," said Keisel. "It's been wonderful being out there with the first team, running reps with guys that know exactly what they are doing. It's been absolutely great."
Keisel admits there is a change in the way he has approached this off-season knowing that he will be a starter. He re-signed with the team during the off-season and did so with a vote of confidence from the coaches that he can handle the job.
"I try and get my mind more focused now that I am out here with the first group," said Keisel. "I feel like I still have something to prove. The coaches trusted me to bring me into this role. I just have to make sure that I am doing my job on Sunday's and that is what I am concentrating on right now."
* * *
Thursday was the last day of the team's off-season workouts and all of the players are happy with the way things went.
"It's been real positive for the older guys and the younger guys," said running back Willie Parker. "We are getting better at everything we do. The younger guys are learning. We are out here competing every day. It's no longer trying to figure out your assignments, we're just playing football."
For veterans and rookies alike, it's been a chance to get a good head start on training camp and start to set the groundwork for the upcoming season.
"When you come out here day after day it's a constant progression going into training camp," said linebacker Clark Haggans. "Week after week the intensity has gone up. It's been fun, a lot of talk. There has been a lot of jawing to stir up some competitiveness between the offense and defense."
http://media3.steelers.com/article/65224/
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buckeye247
# 33
I have to explain why I think that guy is a loser you have got to be joking me, im sure he is a big fan but why would someone ever cover their body with football tattoos. I could see if it were for some religous beliefs like some of the people in the pacific ex, samoans. But we are talking about the game of football. Its disgusting i cant wait to see what he looks like when he's 70.
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AJHawkfan
Wanna make $14 the hard way?
So, having tattoos makes this guy a loser?
You might want to watch yourself; there are many, many people on this board who have a number of tattoos. (Before you ask, no, I do not have any tats. I generally don't like them, but I don't judge other people who do have them.)
You can agree with them or not, but to proclaim anyone with ink a loser would be a pretty big generalization, don't you think?
edit: Actually, after re-reading the article, I really have to disagree with you. (And this has nothing to do with being a Steelers fan.) The guy's got a good job, has been married to the same woman for 21-something years, has raised 4 kids and has a passion in life. Regardless of what you think of his choice to get tattoos, you have to respect that much about him.
You might want to watch yourself; there are many, many people on this board who have a number of tattoos. (Before you ask, no, I do not have any tats. I generally don't like them, but I don't judge other people who do have them.)
You can agree with them or not, but to proclaim anyone with ink a loser would be a pretty big generalization, don't you think?
edit: Actually, after re-reading the article, I really have to disagree with you. (And this has nothing to do with being a Steelers fan.) The guy's got a good job, has been married to the same woman for 21-something years, has raised 4 kids and has a passion in life. Regardless of what you think of his choice to get tattoos, you have to respect that much about him.
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Ohio Steeler
Lets go Bucks and Steelers
PITTSBURGH -- Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was injured in a motorcycle accident on Monday morning.
The Steelers confirmed the accident for Channel 4 Action News.
The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review said the accident happened on Second Avenue near the 10th Street Bridge.
A witness told Channel 4 Action News that Roethlisberger went over the handlebars, hit the windshield of another vehicle and then hit the ground.
Roethlisberger was not wearing a helmet, according to the paper.
Police have closed down the bridge, Second Avenue and the Armstrong Tunnels.
Roethlisberger was taken to Mercy Hospital. There is no word on the extent of his injuries.
http://www.nfl.com/teams/story/PIT/9493892
The Steelers confirmed the accident for Channel 4 Action News.
The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review said the accident happened on Second Avenue near the 10th Street Bridge.
A witness told Channel 4 Action News that Roethlisberger went over the handlebars, hit the windshield of another vehicle and then hit the ground.
Roethlisberger was not wearing a helmet, according to the paper.
Police have closed down the bridge, Second Avenue and the Armstrong Tunnels.
Roethlisberger was taken to Mercy Hospital. There is no word on the extent of his injuries.
http://www.nfl.com/teams/story/PIT/9493892
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buckeye247
# 33
Did i say getting tattoos makes you a loser, no i didnt, I have 3 of them myself. All of my tattoos have significant personal meaning to me as they should. Almost a full body suit of Steelers tattoos should classify you as a loser. My reason being that you should get tattoos that remind you of a life changing moment or event. Did all those players know him or care about him "no" they probably dont even know his name. He is just a crazy fan who i think is a loser for getting a tattoo that has no close personal connection with him. I could see a little Steelers symbol that would be totally fine i have seen numerous buckeye tattoos. But when you take it that far either your a complete loser who doesnt respect themselves or has something wrong with them. Im sure he is a nice guy and all im just saying by doing that he is going to be judged as a loser.
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Ohio Steeler
Lets go Bucks and Steelers
Big Ben 'alert and conscious' after bike crash
PITTSBURGH -- Pittsburgh Steelers star Ben Roethlisberger, who last season became the youngest quarterback in NFL history to lead his team to a Super Bowl title, was injured Monday morning in a motorcycle accident and has been transported to a local hospital with head injuries of unspecified severity.
"He was alert and conscious," said Ernie Roman, shift commander for the Allegheny County emergency service, told The Associated Press.
ESPN.com's John Clayton reports that early indications are the injuries are not life-threatening.
Roethlisberger, the team's first-round choice in the 2004 draft, was transported to the trauma unit of nearby Mercy Hospital, a source confirmed for ESPN.com's Len Pasquarelli, but his condition is unknown.
Witnesses told authorities that Roethlisberger's motorcycle collided with a car near a downtown intersection and that Roethlisberger's head hit the windshield and was bleeding. Roethlisberger has said in the past that he prefers not to wear a helmet when riding.
Steelers officials have confirmed the accident, which occurred on Second Avenue near the intersection of 10th Street in Pittsburgh, around 11:30 a.m. The route is one often taken in traveling to the Steelers' facility in the Southside section of the city.
The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reported that Roethlisberger wasn't wearing a helmet. In previous interviews, Roethlisberger has said that he does not like wearing a helmet while wearing a motorcycle.
In the wake of a motorcycle accident sustained by Cleveland Browns tight end Kellen Winslow last spring, Roethlisberger spoke about his own fixation with motorcycles, and his penchant for riding without a helmet. He was admonished by former Steelers quarterback and Hall of Fame member Terry Bradshaw for potentially jeopardizing his career.
In May 2005, Steelers coach Bill Cowher lectured Roethlisberger on the dangers of riding without a helmet.
"He talked about being a risk-taker and I'm not really a risk-taker. I'm pretty conservative and laid back, but the big thing is to just be careful," Roethlisberger said at the time. "I'll just continue to be careful. I told him we don't ever ride alone, we always ride in a group of people, and I think it makes it even more safe."
One of his agents, Ryan Tollner, is in route to Pittsburgh for what was supposed to be a pre-planned trip and will arrive later Monday.
One witness told KDKA television that Roethlisberger was conscious but appeared disoriented before he was taken from the scene to Mercy Hospital.
A Steelers spokesman is at the hospital and confirmed Roethlisberger is being treated there, but wouldn't provide additional details.
John Clayton and Len Pasquarelli contributed to this story. Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2480830
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PITTSBURGH -- Pittsburgh Steelers star Ben Roethlisberger, who last season became the youngest quarterback in NFL history to lead his team to a Super Bowl title, was injured Monday morning in a motorcycle accident and has been transported to a local hospital with head injuries of unspecified severity.
"He was alert and conscious," said Ernie Roman, shift commander for the Allegheny County emergency service, told The Associated Press.
ESPN.com's John Clayton reports that early indications are the injuries are not life-threatening.
Roethlisberger, the team's first-round choice in the 2004 draft, was transported to the trauma unit of nearby Mercy Hospital, a source confirmed for ESPN.com's Len Pasquarelli, but his condition is unknown.
Witnesses told authorities that Roethlisberger's motorcycle collided with a car near a downtown intersection and that Roethlisberger's head hit the windshield and was bleeding. Roethlisberger has said in the past that he prefers not to wear a helmet when riding.
Steelers officials have confirmed the accident, which occurred on Second Avenue near the intersection of 10th Street in Pittsburgh, around 11:30 a.m. The route is one often taken in traveling to the Steelers' facility in the Southside section of the city.
The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reported that Roethlisberger wasn't wearing a helmet. In previous interviews, Roethlisberger has said that he does not like wearing a helmet while wearing a motorcycle.
In the wake of a motorcycle accident sustained by Cleveland Browns tight end Kellen Winslow last spring, Roethlisberger spoke about his own fixation with motorcycles, and his penchant for riding without a helmet. He was admonished by former Steelers quarterback and Hall of Fame member Terry Bradshaw for potentially jeopardizing his career.
In May 2005, Steelers coach Bill Cowher lectured Roethlisberger on the dangers of riding without a helmet.
"He talked about being a risk-taker and I'm not really a risk-taker. I'm pretty conservative and laid back, but the big thing is to just be careful," Roethlisberger said at the time. "I'll just continue to be careful. I told him we don't ever ride alone, we always ride in a group of people, and I think it makes it even more safe."
One of his agents, Ryan Tollner, is in route to Pittsburgh for what was supposed to be a pre-planned trip and will arrive later Monday.
One witness told KDKA television that Roethlisberger was conscious but appeared disoriented before he was taken from the scene to Mercy Hospital.
A Steelers spokesman is at the hospital and confirmed Roethlisberger is being treated there, but wouldn't provide additional details.
John Clayton and Len Pasquarelli contributed to this story. Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2480830
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Ohio Steeler
Lets go Bucks and Steelers
story from nfl.com
PITTSBURGH (June 12, 2006) -- Steelers star Ben Roethlisberger, the youngest quarterback to lead a team to the Super Bowl championship, broke his jaw and nose in a motorcycle crash in which he was not wearing a helmet.
Roethlisberger was in serious but stable condition later in the afternoon, Dr. Larry Jones, chief of trauma at Mercy Hospital said before surgery.
The player's agent, Leigh Steinberg, described the injuries to The Associated Press and said he did not know if there was further damage.
"He was talking to me before he left for the operating room," Jones said. "He's coherent. He's making sense. He knows what happened. He knows where he is. From that standpoint, he's very stable."
Roethlisberger's mother, Brenda, was crying as she arrived at the hospital.
Steelers president Art Rooney II said the team was "encouraged by the early reports from the medical team" at the hospital. "I am sure Ben knows that we are praying for his complete recovery."
The 24-year-old Roethlisberger was without a helmet, police said. He has said he likes to ride without one, a habit that once prompted a lecture from Pittsburgh coach Bill Cowher.
Roethlisberger was on his black 2005 Suzuki Hayabusa -- the company calls it the world's fastest bike for legal street riding -- and headed toward an intersection on the edge of downtown. A silver Chrysler New Yorker traveling in the opposite direction took a left turn and collided with the motorcycle, and Roethlisberger was thrown, police said.
The other car was driven by a 62-year-old woman, police said. They didn't immediately release her name and no charges were filed.
Witness Sandra Ford was waiting at a bus stop when she said she saw the motorcycle approach. Seconds later, she said she heard a crash, saw the motorcyclist in the air and ran toward the crash scene.
"He wasn't moving and I was afraid that he had died. ... He wasn't really speaking. He seemed dazed but he was resisting the effort to make him stay down," said Ford, who didn't realize the motorcyclist was Roethlisberger.
Police spokesman Lt. Kevin Kraus said police and homicide units were leading the investigation, a standard practice when there is an accident with critical injuries.
In only his second year in the NFL, Roethlisberger helped guide the Steelers to the Super Bowl title in February at age 23. Training camp for next season begins at the end of July.
Several teammates, including backup quarterback Charlie Batch, linebacker Joey Porter and safety Mike Logan, arrived at the hospital emergency room but did not comment.
Some fans also gathered at the hospital, including Juanita Clark, who sells Steelers paraphernalia.
"I just feel like he's a family member," said her daughter, Loretta Clark.
Roethlisberger has said in the past that he prefers not to wear a helmet when riding his motorcycle. He has pointed out Pennsylvania's state law requiring helmets to be worn was repealed in September 2003.
In May 2005, Cowher warned him about safe riding after Cleveland tight end Kellen Winslow Jr. was injured in a motorcycle accident. Winslow tore knee ligaments and was lost for the season.
"He talked about being a risk-taker and I'm not really a risk-taker. I'm pretty conservative and laid back, but the big thing is to just be careful," Roethlisberger said at the time. "I'll just continue to be careful. I told him we don't ever ride alone, we always ride in a group of people, and I think it makes it even more safe."
Roethlisberger continued to ride after Winslow's accident and that angered Terry Bradshaw, who quarterbacked the Steelers to four Super Bowl victories during the 1970s.
Visiting the Steelers' training camp last summer, Bradshaw remarked: "Ride it when you retire."
PITTSBURGH (June 12, 2006) -- Steelers star Ben Roethlisberger, the youngest quarterback to lead a team to the Super Bowl championship, broke his jaw and nose in a motorcycle crash in which he was not wearing a helmet.
Roethlisberger was in serious but stable condition later in the afternoon, Dr. Larry Jones, chief of trauma at Mercy Hospital said before surgery.
The player's agent, Leigh Steinberg, described the injuries to The Associated Press and said he did not know if there was further damage.
"He was talking to me before he left for the operating room," Jones said. "He's coherent. He's making sense. He knows what happened. He knows where he is. From that standpoint, he's very stable."
Roethlisberger's mother, Brenda, was crying as she arrived at the hospital.
Steelers president Art Rooney II said the team was "encouraged by the early reports from the medical team" at the hospital. "I am sure Ben knows that we are praying for his complete recovery."
The 24-year-old Roethlisberger was without a helmet, police said. He has said he likes to ride without one, a habit that once prompted a lecture from Pittsburgh coach Bill Cowher.
Roethlisberger was on his black 2005 Suzuki Hayabusa -- the company calls it the world's fastest bike for legal street riding -- and headed toward an intersection on the edge of downtown. A silver Chrysler New Yorker traveling in the opposite direction took a left turn and collided with the motorcycle, and Roethlisberger was thrown, police said.
The other car was driven by a 62-year-old woman, police said. They didn't immediately release her name and no charges were filed.
Witness Sandra Ford was waiting at a bus stop when she said she saw the motorcycle approach. Seconds later, she said she heard a crash, saw the motorcyclist in the air and ran toward the crash scene.
"He wasn't moving and I was afraid that he had died. ... He wasn't really speaking. He seemed dazed but he was resisting the effort to make him stay down," said Ford, who didn't realize the motorcyclist was Roethlisberger.
Police spokesman Lt. Kevin Kraus said police and homicide units were leading the investigation, a standard practice when there is an accident with critical injuries.
In only his second year in the NFL, Roethlisberger helped guide the Steelers to the Super Bowl title in February at age 23. Training camp for next season begins at the end of July.
Several teammates, including backup quarterback Charlie Batch, linebacker Joey Porter and safety Mike Logan, arrived at the hospital emergency room but did not comment.
Some fans also gathered at the hospital, including Juanita Clark, who sells Steelers paraphernalia.
"I just feel like he's a family member," said her daughter, Loretta Clark.
Roethlisberger has said in the past that he prefers not to wear a helmet when riding his motorcycle. He has pointed out Pennsylvania's state law requiring helmets to be worn was repealed in September 2003.
In May 2005, Cowher warned him about safe riding after Cleveland tight end Kellen Winslow Jr. was injured in a motorcycle accident. Winslow tore knee ligaments and was lost for the season.
"He talked about being a risk-taker and I'm not really a risk-taker. I'm pretty conservative and laid back, but the big thing is to just be careful," Roethlisberger said at the time. "I'll just continue to be careful. I told him we don't ever ride alone, we always ride in a group of people, and I think it makes it even more safe."
Roethlisberger continued to ride after Winslow's accident and that angered Terry Bradshaw, who quarterbacked the Steelers to four Super Bowl victories during the 1970s.
Visiting the Steelers' training camp last summer, Bradshaw remarked: "Ride it when you retire."
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Ohio Steeler
Lets go Bucks and Steelers
Multiple injuries, few answers for Roethlisberger
Four surgeons work for 7 hours to repair facial fractures
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
By Michael A. Fuoco, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Doctors successfully repaired what they said were multiple facial fractures suffered in a motorcycle accident yesterday by Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, but no one would say how his injuries would affect his ability to play.
The 24-year-old quarterback, who was not wearing a helmet, was in serious but stable condition at Mercy Hospital after undergoing seven hours of surgery performed by a team of four surgeons.
Mr. Roethlisberger was injured in an accident at 11:10 a.m. as his motorcycle collided with a car on Second Avenue near the 10th Street Bridge. Witnesses said his head hit the car's windshield and then struck the pavement.
Dr. Daniel Pituch, chief of Mercy's division of oral and maxillofacial surgery, said Mr. Roethlisberger underwent surgery for multiple facial fractures after being evaluated by the surgical team.
"All of the fractures were successfully repaired," he said.
Dr. Pituch would not elaborate further on the quarterback's head injuries. But he indicated that the quarterback did not suffer any other serious injuries.
"His brain, spine, chest and abdomen appear to be without serious injury and there are no other confirmed injuries at this time," Dr. Pituch said.
Dr. Pituch said he did not expect Mr. Roethlisberger's condition to change overnight.
Dr. Harry W. Sell Jr., chairman of surgery at Mercy, said the quarterbacks' family requested that no other information be released about his injuries and doctors declined to answer any questions at a briefing last night.
But Dr. Sell relayed a word of thanks from his family members.
"The Roethlisberger family extends their gratitude for the support, prayers and well wishes that have been pouring into Mercy Hospital," Dr. Sell said.
Although his injuries were serious, onlookers said it could have been much worse. Witnesses said he twice struck his head -- on the car's windshield and then, after flying over the car, on the roadway.
Indeed, the mood at Steelers headquarters later in the day was "reserved optimism." Steelers team president Art Rooney II said he was praying that "Ben's going to make it all right" after arriving last night at Mercy Hospital.
An earlier statement from Mr. Rooney said everyone in the organization was concerned and that, "So far, we have been encouraged by the early reports from the medical team at Mercy Hospital."
Before going into surgery, Dr. Larry Jones of Mercy said the quarterback was talking, was coherent and was cognizant of the situation.
One Steelers source said Mr. Roethlisberger was in surgery for a broken jaw, an injury that can take approximately seven weeks to heal. The Steelers season starts in 12 weeks.
Steelers fans across the region shared concern about the quarterback's condition while debating his judgment in not wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle, especially since he wears one for his occupation.
Several fans showed up at the hospital last night to hold a vigil, complete with lawn chairs and a miniature charcoal grill.
A handful of Steelers players also came to the hospital, including backup quarterback Charlie Batch. Coach Bill Cowher came to the hospital about 9:15 p.m. but did not speak to reporters.
The accident scene left little doubt that the late-morning accident in the Bluff involving Mr. Roethlisberger's motorcycle and a Chrysler New Yorker had been horrific. Metal was twisted like licorice. Windshield glass shattered. Blood pooled on the pavement.
In the moments after the accident, onlookers shook their heads in concern. All they could do was hope for the best for the anonymous motorcyclist.
And then reporters arrived and spread the word that the accident victim was someone they all knew. Those who had been there were stunned. Others, who heard the news from the media, made a pilgrimage to the scene where the severely damaged car, demolished cycle, a red hooded sweatshirt, and blood stains gave silent testimony to what had occurred.
Mr. Roethlisberger was riding a 2005 Suzuki Hayabusa motorcycle outbound on Second Avenue when a 1996 silver New Yorker driven in the opposite direction by Martha Fleishman, 62, of Squirrel Hill, attempted to turn left onto the 10th Street Bridge in front of the motorcycle.
Mr. Roethlisberger smashed his cycle into the car near the front passenger side. His head crashed into the car's windshield, shattering it and leaving a 6-inch hole. Witnesses said he flew over the car and landed on his head on the pavement. A pool of blood marked the spot long after Mr. Roethlisberger was rushed by ambulance to nearby Mercy Hospital.
A woman who declined to give her name said she saw the accident and ran onto the roadway to help the victim. She didn't know it was the Steelers quarterback until a reporter told her about a half hour later.
"That was him? Oh, my! He did say his name was 'Ben,' " she said, recalling that the injured man knew his name but was so disoriented he didn't know the city he was in. "I told him to lie down. He kept trying to get up."
Others who saw him likewise didn't recognize him because of the injuries he suffered and the large amount of blood that covered his face and head.
Among them was Sandra Ford, a Homewood writer and artist, who had just finished teaching a writing class at the Allegheny County Jail and was waiting for a bus on the Armstrong Tunnels side of Second Avenue. Attracted by the loud exhaust, she noticed a motorcycle approaching from her right ridden by a rugged-looking white man with curly hair.
"He was sailing, like he was enjoying the ride. He was going at a good clip but wasn't going overly fast," Ms. Ford said.
She said as he passed her, she noticed a car turning left in front of him. She said she expected the motorcycle to slow down or even have to slam on the brakes but was blocked from further view by cars traveling inbound. And then she heard a "crunching sound" and saw the motorcyclist fly over the car.
"He was a like a doll someone threw up into the air," Ms. Ford said. "I ran to the scene and he was lying on his back and wasn't moving. I thought he was dead."
And then the victim tried to get up but was calmed down by the unidentified witness and a man who tended to him until medics arrived shortly thereafter. She said she spoke with Mrs. Fleishman who she said told her, "I was watching him approach but he was not looking at me."
Ms. Ford caught her bus but couldn't get the accident out of her mind.
"I felt so badly for that guy. Two seconds can change your life," she said. "And then I get home and turn on the TV and find out it's Ben Roethlisberger and I was really upset then."
Mrs. Fleishman's husband, Martin, confirmed in a telephone interview that his wife was the driver but said the couple didn't want to discuss what happened.
"We really have no statement," Mr. Fleishman said. "We certainly hope everything goes well for Mr. Roethlisberger but we have no other statement. Certainly this is terrible and unfortunate. We hope he has a speedy recovery."
He wouldn't comment on his wife's physical or emotional condition in the wake of the accident other than to say, "She's doing as best as she can."
The car is registered to Mrs. Fleishman and carries Maine license plates. The couple has a summer home in Farmington, Maine.
The city police Collision Investigations Unit is investigating the accident. Both vehicles were towed for further investigative processing. There has not been any determination of the speed of the vehicles and no charges have been filed. The investigation could take several weeks to complete, police said.
Mr. Roethlisberger has been known to ride without a helmet when operating his cycle. Steelers coach Bill Cowher addressed the issue with his starting quarterback in May 2005 after Cleveland Browns tight end Kellen Winslow had a motorcycle accident in suburban Cleveland. Mr. Winslow hit a curb in a parking lot and was ejected from his bike, injuring his knee.
"It's one of those things, where he talked about being a risk-taker and I'm not really a risk-taker, I'm pretty conservative and laid back," Mr. Roethlisberger told the Post-Gazette. "So the big thing is just be careful and that's what we do.
"I think every person that rides is careful. That's the biggest thing, I'll just continue to be careful. I told him we never ride alone, we always ride in a group of people, and I think that makes it more safe."
Mr. Roethlisberger's mother, Ida, was killed in a car accident when he was 8 years old.
Throughout the area, indeed throughout the entire Steeler Nation, concerns were voiced about Mr. Roethlisberger's condition as were some criticisms of his off-field decision-making. While a few fans said it was a personal decision, many were troubled by his not wearing a motorcycle helmet. Still others said he shouldn't have been on a motorcycle in the first place, claiming he had an obligation as a professional football player not to put himself at risk.
"The cautionary note is, everyone should wear a helmet," said Dr. Jack Wilberger, chairman of neurosurgery at Allegheny General Hospital. "If he had a helmet on he might have been able to get up and walk away, take the helmet off and be scared to death, but be fine."
While Mr. Winslow's contract forbade him from riding a motorcycle, Mr. Roethlisberger's contract does not prohibit him from riding motorcycles, even without a helmet. The standard NFL contract prohibits risky behavior, but that is not precisely defined. Pennsylvania repealed its mandatory helmet law in 2003.
"I think that's my own discretion," Mr. Roethlisberger said about not wearing a helmet when he rides. "Obviously, Pennsylvania doesn't think people need to."
During an interview last year, Steelers Hall-of-Fame quarterback Terry Bradshaw offered one piece of advice for Mr. Roethlisberger about his motorcycle.
"Ride it when you retire. That's the way I feel. Those things are dangerous."
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/06164/697828-66.stm
Four surgeons work for 7 hours to repair facial fractures
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
By Michael A. Fuoco, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Doctors successfully repaired what they said were multiple facial fractures suffered in a motorcycle accident yesterday by Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, but no one would say how his injuries would affect his ability to play.
The 24-year-old quarterback, who was not wearing a helmet, was in serious but stable condition at Mercy Hospital after undergoing seven hours of surgery performed by a team of four surgeons.
Mr. Roethlisberger was injured in an accident at 11:10 a.m. as his motorcycle collided with a car on Second Avenue near the 10th Street Bridge. Witnesses said his head hit the car's windshield and then struck the pavement.
Dr. Daniel Pituch, chief of Mercy's division of oral and maxillofacial surgery, said Mr. Roethlisberger underwent surgery for multiple facial fractures after being evaluated by the surgical team.
"All of the fractures were successfully repaired," he said.
Dr. Pituch would not elaborate further on the quarterback's head injuries. But he indicated that the quarterback did not suffer any other serious injuries.
"His brain, spine, chest and abdomen appear to be without serious injury and there are no other confirmed injuries at this time," Dr. Pituch said.
Dr. Pituch said he did not expect Mr. Roethlisberger's condition to change overnight.
Dr. Harry W. Sell Jr., chairman of surgery at Mercy, said the quarterbacks' family requested that no other information be released about his injuries and doctors declined to answer any questions at a briefing last night.
But Dr. Sell relayed a word of thanks from his family members.
"The Roethlisberger family extends their gratitude for the support, prayers and well wishes that have been pouring into Mercy Hospital," Dr. Sell said.
Although his injuries were serious, onlookers said it could have been much worse. Witnesses said he twice struck his head -- on the car's windshield and then, after flying over the car, on the roadway.
Indeed, the mood at Steelers headquarters later in the day was "reserved optimism." Steelers team president Art Rooney II said he was praying that "Ben's going to make it all right" after arriving last night at Mercy Hospital.
An earlier statement from Mr. Rooney said everyone in the organization was concerned and that, "So far, we have been encouraged by the early reports from the medical team at Mercy Hospital."
Before going into surgery, Dr. Larry Jones of Mercy said the quarterback was talking, was coherent and was cognizant of the situation.
One Steelers source said Mr. Roethlisberger was in surgery for a broken jaw, an injury that can take approximately seven weeks to heal. The Steelers season starts in 12 weeks.
Steelers fans across the region shared concern about the quarterback's condition while debating his judgment in not wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle, especially since he wears one for his occupation.
Several fans showed up at the hospital last night to hold a vigil, complete with lawn chairs and a miniature charcoal grill.
A handful of Steelers players also came to the hospital, including backup quarterback Charlie Batch. Coach Bill Cowher came to the hospital about 9:15 p.m. but did not speak to reporters.
The accident scene left little doubt that the late-morning accident in the Bluff involving Mr. Roethlisberger's motorcycle and a Chrysler New Yorker had been horrific. Metal was twisted like licorice. Windshield glass shattered. Blood pooled on the pavement.
In the moments after the accident, onlookers shook their heads in concern. All they could do was hope for the best for the anonymous motorcyclist.
And then reporters arrived and spread the word that the accident victim was someone they all knew. Those who had been there were stunned. Others, who heard the news from the media, made a pilgrimage to the scene where the severely damaged car, demolished cycle, a red hooded sweatshirt, and blood stains gave silent testimony to what had occurred.
Mr. Roethlisberger was riding a 2005 Suzuki Hayabusa motorcycle outbound on Second Avenue when a 1996 silver New Yorker driven in the opposite direction by Martha Fleishman, 62, of Squirrel Hill, attempted to turn left onto the 10th Street Bridge in front of the motorcycle.
Mr. Roethlisberger smashed his cycle into the car near the front passenger side. His head crashed into the car's windshield, shattering it and leaving a 6-inch hole. Witnesses said he flew over the car and landed on his head on the pavement. A pool of blood marked the spot long after Mr. Roethlisberger was rushed by ambulance to nearby Mercy Hospital.
A woman who declined to give her name said she saw the accident and ran onto the roadway to help the victim. She didn't know it was the Steelers quarterback until a reporter told her about a half hour later.
"That was him? Oh, my! He did say his name was 'Ben,' " she said, recalling that the injured man knew his name but was so disoriented he didn't know the city he was in. "I told him to lie down. He kept trying to get up."
Others who saw him likewise didn't recognize him because of the injuries he suffered and the large amount of blood that covered his face and head.
Among them was Sandra Ford, a Homewood writer and artist, who had just finished teaching a writing class at the Allegheny County Jail and was waiting for a bus on the Armstrong Tunnels side of Second Avenue. Attracted by the loud exhaust, she noticed a motorcycle approaching from her right ridden by a rugged-looking white man with curly hair.
"He was sailing, like he was enjoying the ride. He was going at a good clip but wasn't going overly fast," Ms. Ford said.
She said as he passed her, she noticed a car turning left in front of him. She said she expected the motorcycle to slow down or even have to slam on the brakes but was blocked from further view by cars traveling inbound. And then she heard a "crunching sound" and saw the motorcyclist fly over the car.
"He was a like a doll someone threw up into the air," Ms. Ford said. "I ran to the scene and he was lying on his back and wasn't moving. I thought he was dead."
And then the victim tried to get up but was calmed down by the unidentified witness and a man who tended to him until medics arrived shortly thereafter. She said she spoke with Mrs. Fleishman who she said told her, "I was watching him approach but he was not looking at me."
Ms. Ford caught her bus but couldn't get the accident out of her mind.
"I felt so badly for that guy. Two seconds can change your life," she said. "And then I get home and turn on the TV and find out it's Ben Roethlisberger and I was really upset then."
Mrs. Fleishman's husband, Martin, confirmed in a telephone interview that his wife was the driver but said the couple didn't want to discuss what happened.
"We really have no statement," Mr. Fleishman said. "We certainly hope everything goes well for Mr. Roethlisberger but we have no other statement. Certainly this is terrible and unfortunate. We hope he has a speedy recovery."
He wouldn't comment on his wife's physical or emotional condition in the wake of the accident other than to say, "She's doing as best as she can."
The car is registered to Mrs. Fleishman and carries Maine license plates. The couple has a summer home in Farmington, Maine.
The city police Collision Investigations Unit is investigating the accident. Both vehicles were towed for further investigative processing. There has not been any determination of the speed of the vehicles and no charges have been filed. The investigation could take several weeks to complete, police said.
Mr. Roethlisberger has been known to ride without a helmet when operating his cycle. Steelers coach Bill Cowher addressed the issue with his starting quarterback in May 2005 after Cleveland Browns tight end Kellen Winslow had a motorcycle accident in suburban Cleveland. Mr. Winslow hit a curb in a parking lot and was ejected from his bike, injuring his knee.
"It's one of those things, where he talked about being a risk-taker and I'm not really a risk-taker, I'm pretty conservative and laid back," Mr. Roethlisberger told the Post-Gazette. "So the big thing is just be careful and that's what we do.
"I think every person that rides is careful. That's the biggest thing, I'll just continue to be careful. I told him we never ride alone, we always ride in a group of people, and I think that makes it more safe."
Mr. Roethlisberger's mother, Ida, was killed in a car accident when he was 8 years old.
Throughout the area, indeed throughout the entire Steeler Nation, concerns were voiced about Mr. Roethlisberger's condition as were some criticisms of his off-field decision-making. While a few fans said it was a personal decision, many were troubled by his not wearing a motorcycle helmet. Still others said he shouldn't have been on a motorcycle in the first place, claiming he had an obligation as a professional football player not to put himself at risk.
"The cautionary note is, everyone should wear a helmet," said Dr. Jack Wilberger, chairman of neurosurgery at Allegheny General Hospital. "If he had a helmet on he might have been able to get up and walk away, take the helmet off and be scared to death, but be fine."
While Mr. Winslow's contract forbade him from riding a motorcycle, Mr. Roethlisberger's contract does not prohibit him from riding motorcycles, even without a helmet. The standard NFL contract prohibits risky behavior, but that is not precisely defined. Pennsylvania repealed its mandatory helmet law in 2003.
"I think that's my own discretion," Mr. Roethlisberger said about not wearing a helmet when he rides. "Obviously, Pennsylvania doesn't think people need to."
During an interview last year, Steelers Hall-of-Fame quarterback Terry Bradshaw offered one piece of advice for Mr. Roethlisberger about his motorcycle.
"Ride it when you retire. That's the way I feel. Those things are dangerous."
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/06164/697828-66.stm
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Ohio Steeler
Lets go Bucks and Steelers
PITTSBURGH -- Ben Roethlisberger was released from a hospital late Wednesday night after spending more than two days recovering from facial injuries he sustained in a motorcycle accident.
The Steelers quarterback left Mercy Hospital around 11:30 p.m., said team spokesman Dave Lockett. It was unclear where he went, Lockett said.
Doctors had encouraging words Wednesday about Roethlisberger, whose motorcycle collided with a car at a Pittsburgh intersection Monday morning. A second round of tests again showed no brain injuries, although he has a concussion.
Roethlisberger got out of his bed to greet visitors Wednesday, less than 48 hours after being admitted to a hospital located only a few blocks from the crash site.
Players who visited with Roethlisberger said he is upbeat, and they are convinced he will be back quickly and with no diminished skills. Counting the playoffs, the Steelers have a 27-4 record with Roethlisberger at quarterback and have advanced to two AFC championship games and won a Super Bowl during his two seasons as a starter.
Because Roethlisberger's multiple facial fractures, broken nose and broken upper and lower jaw are being held in place by screws and 2-inch titanium plates, he can eat soft foods -- and not be restricted to liquids -- during an estimated six-to-eight week recovery period.
"We take a titanium plate, bend it and adapt it to the contours of the facial bones and then secure it in place with screws," surgeon Daniel Pituch said Wednesday. "This kind of state-of-the-art technology allowed us to successfully treat Mr. Roethlisberger's facial fractures."
As a result, the 240-pound Roethlisberger probably won't lose as much weight as he would have on an all-liquid diet. The Steelers have not given a timetable for his return, but they are optimistic he will be ready for their Sept. 7 opener against Miami.
One of the team's concerns was how long Roethlisberger would need to regain his weight and strength after being unable to work out for what might be an extended period.
June 15, 2006
CBS SportsLine.com wire reports
The Steelers quarterback left Mercy Hospital around 11:30 p.m., said team spokesman Dave Lockett. It was unclear where he went, Lockett said.
Doctors had encouraging words Wednesday about Roethlisberger, whose motorcycle collided with a car at a Pittsburgh intersection Monday morning. A second round of tests again showed no brain injuries, although he has a concussion.
Roethlisberger got out of his bed to greet visitors Wednesday, less than 48 hours after being admitted to a hospital located only a few blocks from the crash site.
Players who visited with Roethlisberger said he is upbeat, and they are convinced he will be back quickly and with no diminished skills. Counting the playoffs, the Steelers have a 27-4 record with Roethlisberger at quarterback and have advanced to two AFC championship games and won a Super Bowl during his two seasons as a starter.
Because Roethlisberger's multiple facial fractures, broken nose and broken upper and lower jaw are being held in place by screws and 2-inch titanium plates, he can eat soft foods -- and not be restricted to liquids -- during an estimated six-to-eight week recovery period.
"We take a titanium plate, bend it and adapt it to the contours of the facial bones and then secure it in place with screws," surgeon Daniel Pituch said Wednesday. "This kind of state-of-the-art technology allowed us to successfully treat Mr. Roethlisberger's facial fractures."
As a result, the 240-pound Roethlisberger probably won't lose as much weight as he would have on an all-liquid diet. The Steelers have not given a timetable for his return, but they are optimistic he will be ready for their Sept. 7 opener against Miami.
One of the team's concerns was how long Roethlisberger would need to regain his weight and strength after being unable to work out for what might be an extended period.
June 15, 2006
CBS SportsLine.com wire reports
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