PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – School is out for the summer, but some local kids spent the day learning all about football from one of the best in the business.

There was a lot of energy out on the field as 500 kids took part in the Ben Roethlisberger Football Camp.

Big Ben made the rounds to help divide the young athletes into teams.

“I’ve always had a spot in my heart for the kids and to see the joy on their face when they’re throwing a pass to get a completion and get a high five. It’s just awesome to me,” Roethlisberger said.

This is the fourth year for Roethlisberger’s came it has become a tradition for some kids.

“He asked me if me and my friend cheated to be on the same team, but we told him no and then he said he remembered me from last year,” Maddie Mulinaro said.

Veterans and rookies alike were thrilled to be able to hang out with one of their role models.

During drills, Roethlisberger moved around passing and catching.

The kids were also excited to meet Brett Keisel who showed up to toss the ball around.

“It’s hard because I have to keep them from getting too excited and not paying attention to their coach. They all want high fives and they all want me to throw them the ball, so once we get them going on their drills, it’s pretty fun,” Roethlisberger said.

One of the big highlights for the kids ranging in age from 7 to 14 was lining up and having the chance to catch a pass from Big Ben.

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