Kirk Herbstreit’s lovely golden retriever Ben, who has induced numerous smiles on so many school campuses over the previous two years, has handed away, in response to the ESPN “Faculty GameDay” soccer analyst.
A licensed emotional service animal, Ben turned well-known for his infectious, pleasant nature whereas within the nationwide highlight every week. He precipitated uncontrollable “oohs-and-ahs” whereas accompanying Herbstreit across the nation masking soccer.
Ben would typically be seen on set throughout dwell productions.
The long-time ESPN commentator would additionally deliver his cherished canine alongside for his “Thursday Night time Soccer” on Prime Video gig.
Herbstreit stated Ben died after a battle with most cancers.
“That is actually onerous to jot down however so a lot of you’ve gotten beloved and cared about Ben that I needed to let you recognize. We came upon at present the most cancers had unfold all through Bens organs and there was nothing left we may do – we needed to let him go,” Herbstreit posted on social media together with an image displaying him along with his arm round Ben.
Ben had been with Herbstreit for 10 years and had taken ailing this 12 months. In accordance with ESPN, Ben was identified with leukemia in March and underwent surgical procedure in July.
“I’ve had canines my entire life however Ben was 1 on 1. He was smart-loving-gentle-patient-inquisitive-and welcoming to all. At all times a giant smile and a tender tail wag. He and I may talk..he and I understood one another and had every others backs. He was with me greater than anybody at residence and touring with me for work. Such a straightforward going companion. Laborious day-but he’ll dwell inside all of us endlessly.”
On Tuesday, Herbstreit stated Ben had acquired his second chemotherapy injection in late October, and his situation was worsening.
“One of many hardest issues I’ve gone by way of in my life. Ben is my greatest pal and companion. I really like him with all of my coronary heart,” he stated earlier this week.
The pooch turned a fan favourite in 2023 when Herbstreit first introduced the large lab on the highway.
The school soccer professional defined how a lot he beloved the Ben phenomenon in January.
“There’s simply one thing totally different about him. I’m simply pleased folks love his happiness and it makes them have a greater day,” he stated.
“It wasn’t the intent. I simply needed a companion out on the highway with me as a lot as I journey. He’s my actually good buddy.”
Herbstreit chronicled the enjoyment Ben delivered to the world whereas the pair went to work.
Ben typically acquired his personal press credential – giving the pup coveted discipline entry.
Tributes to Ben poured in after information unfold of his demise.
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