On Thursday, November 7, ESPN College GameDay’s star Kirk Herbstreit shared some heartbreaking news: his golden retriever, Ben—a cherished service dog known and loved at football stadiums and a favorite among sports fans—had passed away at the age of 10.

Ben, passed away after a courageous battle with leukaemia and lymphoma. At ten years old, Ben was more than a pet; he was a service dog, a football stadium fixture, and a fan favorite, celebrated for his easygoing charm and presence alongside Herbstreit at events across the country.

Herbstreit took to social media platform X to share the painful update, writing, “This is really hard to write but so many of you have loved and cared about Ben that I wanted to let you know. We found out today the cancer had spread throughout Ben’s organs and there was nothing left we could do—we had to let him go.”

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Since March, Ben had been undergoing cancer treatment, but his condition worsened as the disease progressed.

A companion like no other

In his tribute, Herbstreit reflected on the bond he shared with Ben, who he described as “one of a kind.” He wrote, “I’ve had dogs my whole life but Ben was 1 on 1. He was smart-loving-gentle-patient-inquisitive-and welcoming to all. Always a big smile and a soft tail wag. He and I could communicate..he and I understood each other and had each others backs. He was with me more than anyone at home and traveling with me for work. Such an easy going companion. Hard day-but he will live within all of us forever. God please bless his majestic soul and thank you for putting him in my life for the last 10 years-a true blessing.”

Outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues

Herbstreit’s announcement drew an outpour of condolences from fans, friends, and sports community members alike. Pat McAfee, the fellow sports analyst, honored Ben’s spirit, writing, “Ben was a bright spot in everybody’s lives… if you met him, you loved him… You 2 were an amazing team of positive vibes. Thank you for letting us experience the greatness that was Ben.”

Social media posts echoed similar sentiments, with one user remembering Ben as a “true legend of the game,” while another added, “Gone but never forgotten.” A sports blogger noted, “Truly a devastating loss for all of the college football community. He brought a lot of joy to the fans and viewers. So sorry for your loss Herb, and thank you for sharing him for the world to see. I hope he’s pain-free crossing that rainbow bridge.”

A sideline star and “Wide Retriever”

Throughout the 2024 season, Ben garnered attention for his sideline presence and undeniable charm. Known affectionately as the Atlanta Falcons’ “Wide Retriever” for Week 5’s Thursday Night Football, Ben also held the title of “Chief Happiness Officer of Football” during Week 2 with the Miami Dolphins. The golden retriever often stole the show, becoming a beloved fixture at college football games and a part of Herbstreit’s sports family.

Ben made a memorable appearance at the season’s kickoff, joining Herbstreit and fellow ESPN analyst Rece Davis at the LSU-USC game in Las Vegas, where his enthusiastic tail-wagging and gentle demeanor delighted fans and viewers.

Ben’s legacy will live on, leaving an indelible mark on fans and the sports world alike as he crosses the “rainbow bridge.” His memory remains cherished by all who encountered his warmth and gentle spirit on the sidelines.