Ben has worked as a free-lance sportswriter in Stark County for nearly 30 years, writing for several area newspapers.  He has also worked previously for an Akron radio station, and sells magazine advertising for Akron's monthly city publication, Akron Life and Leisure.  Ben spent his time as a kid watching the Saturday baseball game of the week, and write up a story about each game he would watch. Ben would also stay up late, and listen to Bob Prince on KDKA announcing Pirates games, while his parents thought he was sleeping!

People who influence you:  My mom and dad, and Therese Pepple, who was my speech and drama teacher at St. Thomas Aquinas.

High School/Year Gradudated/Sports Played (if any):  St. Thomas Aquinas, class of 72. I was NOT an athlete!  I also hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Telecommunications from Kent State University.

Favorite Sports Teams:  High school: St Thomas Aquinas, College: Notre Dame, Ohio State, and Kent State, NFL: Indianapolis Colts, MLB: Pittsburgh Pirates.

Favorite Sports Memory:  There are so many! St. Thomas winning the 1984 D-4 state football championship, and four district titles in boys' basketball. The Pirates winning the World Series in 1960, 1971, and 79. And the Colts wins in Super Bowl 5 and 41.

Favorite Moment Covering a Sports Event:  When Aquinas rallied from a 21-0 deficit at Mogadore in 1988 and won 24-21. And the 84 state title game, 23-0 over Columbus Bishop Hartley at Ohio Stadium in Columbus.

Athlete that Best Represents You and Why:  The Great Roberto Clemente and Johnny Unitas. Both had great integrity, tremendous loyalty, class and character.

Favorite Moment so far on Stark Sports Live:  When I could recall Whammy Douglas, an old Pirates pitcher from the 1950s. The SSL crew was stunned and had no idea who I was talking about!