Why does Kirk Herbstreit Travel with his Dog? Who is Kirk Herbstreit?
by Aishwarya R | Updated Jan 09, 2024
Why does Kirk Herbstreit Travel with his Dog?
Kirk Herbstreit travels with his dog, Ben, primarily for emotional support during his extensive journeys to NFL and college football games. Ben, a golden retriever, became Kirk's steadfast companion after making his first TV appearance in 2021 during a "GameDay" preview featuring the Cincinnati Bearcats and Tulsa Golden Hurricane.
However, the significance of Ben's presence heightened in 2023 when Kirk's son, Zak Herbstreit, faced health challenges, being hospitalized for a heart condition. With Zak unable to participate in Ohio State football practices, Ben assumed the role of Kirk's emotional support dog, providing comfort and companionship during this challenging time. Despite the demanding nature of Kirk's role as an ESPN analyst and his membership in "Thursday Night Football," Ben seamlessly integrates into the limelight.
The adorable golden retriever has even garnered attention from notable figures like Aaron Rodgers, receiving pats during the Week 17 Jets-Browns game. Whether staying in the booth with Kirk during game analysis or accompanying him on various media appearances, Ben plays a crucial role in supporting Kirk emotionally, making him an inseparable part of the analyst's travel routine.
Who is Kirk Herbstreit?
Kirk Edward Herbstreit, born on August 19, 1969, is an accomplished American sportscaster and former college football player. Renowned for his insightful analysis and commentary, Herbstreit serves as an analyst on ESPN's College GameDay, a prominent television program covering college football. Additionally, he provides color commentary for college football games on both ESPN and ABC, as well as Thursday night NFL games on Prime Video.
With an illustrious career in sports broadcasting, Herbstreit has earned widespread recognition, having clinched five Sports Emmy Awards across various categories for his exceptional contributions to television sports coverage. Before making a mark in the broadcasting world, Herbstreit showcased his athletic prowess from 1989 to 1993 as a quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes.
His football journey included several appearances in games during his junior season, culminating in him holding the starting quarterback position throughout his senior season. Beyond his achievements on the field, Herbstreit's transition to a successful career in sports journalism has solidified his status as a prominent and respected figure in the world of college football analysis.
Name
Kirk Edward Herbstreit
Gender
Male
Profession
Sportscaster, Former College Football Player
Date of Birth
August 19, 1969
Place of Birth
Centerville, Ohio
Age
54 (As of January 9, 2024)
Parents
Jim Herbstreit (Father)
Marital Status
Married
Wife Name
Alison Butler
Children
Four Sons: Chase, Jake, Tye, Zak
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Kirk Herbstreit Family
Kirk Herbstreit's family is a central part of his life, contributing to the support network that complements his busy career. He met his wife, Alison, during their time at Ohio State, where she served as a cheerleader. The couple tied the knot in 1998 and has since built a family together, raising four sons.
In 2011, the Herbstreits made a move from Ohio to Nashville. Currently, they divide their time between Nashville and Cincinnati. The latter holds a special place for them, especially since their youngest son, Chase, plays quarterback for St. Xavier High School in Cincinnati. It's evident that family remains a priority for Kirk and Alison, as they actively support their sons in their various athletic and academic pursuits.
The Herbstreit family showcases a strong connection to sports, with twin sons, Jake and Tye, having been athletes at Montgomery Bell Academy. Tye continued his football journey as a walk-on at Clemson University, while Jake initially walked on at Clemson before transferring to Ohio State to focus on academics. Another son, Zak, joined the Ohio State football team as a preferred walk-on in 2021, playing the role of a tight end. This familial connection to football further underscores the Herbstreit family's deep-rooted passion for sports and education.
Kirk Herbstreit Hobbies
Kirk Herbstreit indulges in various hobbies that complement his busy professional life. One of his interests includes playing EA Sports video games, providing a recreational outlet and perhaps a connection to his earlier involvement as a commentator in EA Sports' NCAA Football video game series. In addition to digital entertainment, Herbstreit maintains a commitment to physical well-being by engaging in regular workouts.
Beyond the realm of gaming and fitness, Herbstreit is a passionate horse racing enthusiast, demonstrating his diverse interests beyond football. His love for sports extends to following Ohio teams, including the Cincinnati Bengals, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Cincinnati Reds. Notably, he played a significant role in the documentary "How We Lookin'?" about the life and career of longtime Reds broadcaster Marty Brennaman, showcasing his connection to the broader sports community.
Herbstreit's affection for animals, particularly his golden retrievers, is evident in his leisure time. His bond with his golden retriever, Ben, is highlighted, as Ben has become a loyal companion, accompanying Herbstreit on his extensive travels for football-related broadcast roles. These hobbies not only provide a balance to his professional commitments but also offer insights into the diverse interests that contribute to Kirk Herbstreit's well-rounded lifestyle.
Kirk Herbstreit Religion
Kirk Herbstreit is a devout Christian, openly expressing the profound role faith plays in his life. When questioned about the significance of his religious beliefs, he emphasized, "Everything. I try to every day walk that path." This succinctly underscores the centrality of Herbstreit's Christian faith, highlighting the guiding principles that shape his daily life and actions.
Kirk Herbstreit Career
Kirk Herbstreit, born and raised in Centerville, Ohio, emerged as a multifaceted athlete during his high school years, excelling not only as a quarterback for Centerville High School's football team but also making a mark in basketball and baseball. Graduating as the Ohio Gatorade Player of the Year, Herbstreit's athletic prowess earned him a place in the Ohio State Buckeyes as a quarterback, playing from 1989 to 1993. He became a co-captain and the team MVP in his senior season, setting records like the highest number of pass completions in the Ohio State-Michigan rivalry game.
After completing his degree in business administration at Ohio State in 1993, Herbstreit transitioned to a successful broadcasting career. Joining ESPN in 1996, he quickly rose to prominence as the lead analyst on College GameDay, contributing insightful commentary alongside a team of experts. Known for his dedication to charitable causes, including the Buckeye Cruise for Cancer and The Make A Wish Foundation Ultimate Sports Auction, Herbstreit's impact extends beyond the broadcast booth.
Over the years, he has contributed significantly to ESPN's coverage, earning a nomination for a 1997 Sports Emmy Award and establishing himself as a prominent figure in college football analysis. Herbstreit's involvement in various football events, such as lending his name to the Kirk Herbstreit National Kickoff Classic and joining ABC's Saturday college football primetime games, further solidifies his influence in the sports broadcasting arena. His recent roles include serving as the color commentator for Thursday Night Football on Prime Video, showcasing the versatility and longevity of his career in the dynamic world of sports media.
Kirk Herbstreit Net Worth
Kirk Herbstreit Net Worth is $12 million. His primary source of income is derived from his career in sports broadcasting and analysis. As an esteemed analyst for ESPN, Herbstreit is prominently featured on "College GameDay," a popular television program covering college football. He also provides color commentary for college football games on ESPN and ABC, along with serving as an analyst for Thursday night NFL games on Prime Video.
Herbstreit's extensive experience, insightful commentary, and on-screen presence have contributed to his success in the field, leading to numerous accolades, including five Sports Emmy Awards. Additionally, he has been actively involved in various football-related events, such as the Kirk Herbstreit National Kickoff Classic, further solidifying his influence in the sports broadcasting arena.
Apart from his broadcasting roles, Herbstreit is known for his contributions to ESPN.com and ESPN The Magazine, as well as his work as a color commentator for ESPN's Thursday night college football games. His versatility and expertise in the sports media landscape have likely contributed significantly to his overall income. While specific details about his earnings may not be publicly disclosed, it is evident that Herbstreit's successful career in sports broadcasting forms the cornerstone of his financial endeavors.
Why does Kirk Herbstreit Travel with his Dog - FAQs
Kirk Herbstreit travels with his dog, Ben, as an emotional support companion, especially during challenging times such as when his son Zak Herbstreit faced health issues.
Yes, Ben, the golden retriever, is a constant travel companion for Kirk during his football-related broadcast duties, offering emotional support and companionship.
Ben made his first appearance on TV in 2021 during a "GameDay" preview of the Cincinnati Bearcats and Tulsa Golden Hurricane contest.
Ben took on the role of an emotional support dog for Kirk after Zak Herbstreit, Kirk's son and a tight end for Ohio State, was hospitalized for a heart condition, prompting the need for additional support.
Yes, Ben has received attention from notable figures like Aaron Rodgers, who gave him pats during a Week 17 Jets-Browns game while Kirk continued his duties as an analyst.