On June 24, the NFL kicks off its 15th annual Rookie Symposium. The four-day orientation held in Aurora, Ohio will introduce the 2012 NFL Draft class to life in the NFL prior to the rookies reporting to training camps. NFC rookies will attend from June 24-27, and AFC rookies will attend from June 27-30.
The purpose of the Rookie Symposium is to help prepare players for the opportunities and challenges they will encounter during their NFL experience and to teach them an appreciation for the history of the game as well as the role that they will play in the league’s future. To enhance this teaching, all the rookies will be visiting the Pro Football Hall of Fame as part of their overall Symposium experience. The NFL and its teams are committed to providing the rookies with the best resources to achieve success both on and off-the-field.
The core teaching principles of the Rookie Symposium are NFL history, experience, player expectations and professional and social responsibility. The program includes presentations, videos, and workshops focused on these principles as well as other topics including player health and safety, decision-making and maintaining positive relationships.
Speakers this year will include members of the NFL league office and clubs, the NFL Players Association, professionals in specialized fields, and current and former NFL players.
As part of the 2012 Rookie Symposium, all rookies will spend time with children from the Cleveland area at the Rookie Symposium PLAY 60 Youth Event, where they will lead the group in interactive games and teach them football skills and drills, followed by a healthy barbecue. The event supports the NFL’s commitment to the community and encourages kids to lead an active lifestyle with the NFL PLAY 60 program.
