Brett Keisel, a former Pittsburgh Steelers player, recently shared stories at a luncheon honoring local high school football coaches. Among the tales was one about his journey from a seventh-round draft pick to a key player on the Steelers’ defense. Keisel, who is now settled in Pittsburgh, also spoke about his famous beard and its role in raising over $1 million for the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.
During the 2010 season, Keisel began growing what he called a “caveman” beard, vowing not to shave if the team performed well. Dan Rooney, then U.S. Ambassador to Ireland and a significant figure in Steelers history, first saw the beard during a visit home. In their encounter at the team’s practice facility, Rooney humorously compared Keisel’s look to Santa Claus and encouraged him to keep it.
Keisel’s beard became central to “Shear Da Beard,” an event where teammates shaved his beard while fans watched. This initiative continued for years and significantly benefited the Children’s Hospital.
Reflecting on whether any of this would have happened without Rooney’s approval, Keisel said emphatically, “It’s over.” Even today, people express disappointment when they see him without it. “I’m sorry. It will be back,” he assured them.
Dan Rooney’s legacy includes overseeing 21 division titles and six Super Bowl wins during his 61-season career with the Steelers.
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