Bradenton's IMG Academies to Host NFL Rookie Workshop

NFL rookies — and perhaps the league's lockout controversy — are coming to Bradenton.

The NFL Players Association will host "The Business of Football: Rookie Edition" workshop on June 28-29 at , the training complex announced Wednesday. The workshop is being relocated from Washington, D.C.

The yearly rookie symposium, normally put on by the league and originally scheduled to be held June 27-29 in Canton, Ohio, was canceled because of the uncertainties surrounding the labor situation and the NFL lockout. The NFLPA stepped in to cover the costs.

“We are thrilled to work with IMG Academies to create an environment for these young men to embark on their transition to becoming professionals," said Jason Belser, NFLPA senior director of player services and development, in a news release.

Players selected in April's NFL Draft will attend the symposium, which focuses on financial planning, media and other subjects to prepare the rookies for their pro careers. Industry experts and IMG staff members will consult with them.

“We share in the NFLPA’s mission to prepare athletes for the next stage in life by providing them the resources they need to succeed and realize their potential," said Trevor Mowad, director of the IMG Performance Institute, in a statement.

The IMG Madden Football Academy, which launched last year, provides players with on-field training, mental and physical conditioning, nutrition, communications and media training, life skills and more.