Ex-Steelers QB Batch learns new form of 2-minute drill

By Alan Robinson

Charlie Batch never knew there was a two-minute warning for pro football writers just like there is for NFL players.

Batch, the still-not-retired former Steelers quarterback, took another step toward his post-football career this week when he attended a three-day seminar at Bowling Green State University that taught writing skills to current and former NFL players.

The hands-on session is one of 10 career transition programs run by the NFL. Batch already had experience with the broadcasting boot camp, which will be held in June and is designed to teach on-air skills to players looking ahead to possible careers as commentators or analysts.

Batch felt the writing program was beneficial because those skills are often needed to succeed in radio and TV. The classes included column writing, ethics in journalism, game coverage and social media training.

“It doesn't hurt to have that in your arsenal,” Batch said. “What I didn't know was there was so much work involved.”

Such as deadlines, and how little time writers often have to write, edit and produce readable copy in a short period of time after a game.

One of Batch's assignments was to write an opinion column in 90 minutes, and he felt like he was running a hurry-up offense the entire time.

“You turn it in, and it's reviewed and that's your first draft. You don't get a chance to do any more drafts,” Batch said. “You hand in something that good, and your editors are ripping it apart. You've got to have thick skin.”

Read more: http://triblive.com/sports/steelers/4040101-74/batch-nfl-former#ixzz2TejmD9XV

i would really like to see him staying with the team not as player but more like a coach or coches assistant

Charlie Batch represents all that is well and right with the Steelers. Such a good man!