Kirk Herbstreit, a prominent figure in sports commentary for college football and NFL games, often finds himself in the public eye. However, recently, it’s not just his insightful analysis that’s capturing attention, but also his constant companion: Ben Herbstreit, his Golden Retriever. This 10-year-old dog has become a viral sensation, charming fans at games and across social media platforms.
Ben’s presence at numerous high-profile games, including the Rose Bowl, where he was adorably titled the “Chief Happiness Officer,” has sparked curiosity. Many are wondering, what’s the story behind this special dog? Why does Kirk Herbstreit bring Ben along to these events?
The image shows Kirk Herbstreit standing on a football field with his golden retriever, Ben, before a game. Both are looking towards the field, with Herbstreit holding Ben’s leash. The atmosphere suggests a pre-game moment filled with anticipation.
Ben Herbstreit: An Emotional Support Companion on the Road
While Ben has been accompanying Kirk to games since 2018, his consistent presence became more noticeable during the 2023 season. As reported by USA Today Sports, a significant reason for Ben’s increased visibility is rooted in a personal family matter. Kirk’s son, Zak Herbstreit, faced a health challenge, being hospitalized for a heart condition earlier in the year. Zak, a tight end at Ohio State, although back with the team, continues to receive treatment and is not currently playing.
During this period, Kirk’s demanding career as a commentator required him to be on the road frequently, covering college football and NFL games across the country. Being away from family during such a stressful time can be incredibly isolating. In an interview with ESPN, Kirk explained, “You know, I didn’t bring him out here for this, but I’ve really enjoyed watching people… all of a sudden they see him and just a smile comes on their face because he’s just a happy dog.” Ben serves as more than just a pet; he’s an emotional support animal providing comfort and companionship to Kirk while he’s traveling for work and navigating family concerns.
The Viral Charm of Ben Herbstreit: Spreading Happiness
Ben’s impact extends beyond just providing personal support to Kirk. His joyful and friendly demeanor has resonated with a wide audience. Kirk describes Ben’s personality as “infectious,” noting, “Like, right now, he’s standing over here and just saying hi to people. I think that part of him we’ve appreciated as a family at our house… there’s just something different about him. I’m just happy that people love his happiness and it makes them have a better day.”
This Instagram post from College GameDay shows Ben Herbstreit interacting with fans. Ben is surrounded by people who are petting him and smiling, illustrating his friendly and approachable nature, and highlighting his role in bringing joy to those around him at game events.
Videos and images of Ben interacting with players, fans, and even other sports personalities like Aaron Rodgers have gone viral. He’s been seen cuddling with Aaron Rodgers and even joining the New York Jets for sideline warm-ups. His calm and well-behaved nature is also evident as he quietly sits with Kirk in the commentary booth during games.
This Instagram post from College GameDay features a carousel of images showing Ben Herbstreit in various heartwarming situations at football games. One image shows Ben being affectionately petted by Aaron Rodgers, highlighting Ben’s popularity and positive interactions with prominent figures in the sports world.
Kirk emphasizes that bringing Ben wasn’t initially intended to create a phenomenon of happiness. “It wasn’t the intent,” he shared, “I just wanted a companion out on the road with me as much as I travel. And he’s my really good buddy, so it’s just been fun for me to see people’s reactions … It’s been a phenomenon. It’s very strange to me. I love it because I hate attention so he gets all the attention, and I’m like his handler, which is really the way I like to get through my day.”
In conclusion, Ben Herbstreit’s presence at college football and NFL games is rooted in his role as Kirk Herbstreit’s emotional support animal, providing crucial companionship during demanding travel and a challenging family situation. However, Ben has become much more than just a support dog; he’s a beloved figure who brings joy and smiles to everyone he encounters, unexpectedly becoming a viral sensation in the sports world. Fans eagerly anticipate seeing more of Ben, the “Chief Happiness Officer,” on the sidelines and beyond.
