Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback

Ongoing labor headaches and the first year without a salary cap since 1993 meant this off-season was destined to be different for the Steelers' director of football operations. Couple the ongoing labor headaches and contract restrictions with the desire to rebound after a disappointing 9-7 season and with the off-field distractions, and it's easy to understand why Colbert and the rest of the Steelers are ready for training camp to begin on July 30.

"I think we're all excited to start the season. We know we have a huge challenge ahead of us," Colbert said after speaking to 200 youth football players Thursday at the Homeboys Football Camp at Ambridge High School.

"We didn't have the type of off-season that we're proud of and we're anxious to get back on the field and have a team that competes for a championship and have a team that our fans can be proud to call their team."

Colbert was invited to speak at the camp by founder Tyrone Dixon, an Aliquippa native and Center High graduate. Dixon and Colbert have known each other since 1993, when Colbert met him through family and coaching ties at James Madison University.

"I consider him a player off the field," Dixon said. "He's a guy from an Hines Ward administrative point of view who can come in and say, 'Hey, this is what it takes to be successful.' "

Golfers, volunteers and tournament officials didn't have much to say about the two football stars that have made headlines over the past year.

"We are immune to it because there are so many great players that don't get themselves Heath Miller  in trouble," said Joe Theismann, an all-pro quarterback whose career was ended when Taylor broke his leg.

"It doesn't affect the amount of work that is done out here for charity," he said. "The greatest thing about this tournament is for every star that is out here there are 50 that would take their place, so if someone isn't here it's not obvious."

See photos from the links Thursday at the ACC - Jordan, Romo and more

No one talked about the charges against Roethlisberger by a new Pittsburgh Steelers jerseys Tahoe hotel employee who said she was attacked by the quarterback when he stayed at Harrah's during the 2008 celebrity golf tournament.

Media officials looked puzzled when asked if the tournament had changed because of her allegations.

Theismann said he hoped Roethlisberger and Taylor learned lessons and could do some good in the world.

It almost seems as if sports stars are realizing they are being watched more closely for antics  James Farrior  off the playing field, something actors have encountered for years.

No one wants to be the next Tiger Woods.