Ben Dreith facts for kids

Ben Dreith (born February 1, 1925 – died April 25, 2021) was a famous American football official. He worked in the American Football League (AFL) from 1960 to 1969. Then, he joined the National Football League (NFL) from 1970 to 1990. Before becoming an official, he was a great athlete in college.

Ben Dreith was known as a strict and fair official. He worked for 30 years in professional football. During this time, he was a referee in two Super Bowls. He also worked in playoff games for 28 years in a row!

College Sports Star

Ben Dreith went to the University of Northern Colorado. He graduated in 1950. While there, he was an amazing athlete. He played baseball, basketball, and football.

He was chosen as one of the best players in his conference many times. He was a four-time all-conference selection in baseball. He was also a two-time all-conference selection in basketball. After college, he became a teacher in Denver.

His Career as a Football Official

Ben Dreith started his career with the new AFL in 1960. He moved to the NFL in 1970. This happened after the AFL and NFL joined together.

He was the main referee for two big games: Super Bowl VIII and Super Bowl XV. He also worked in eight conference championship games. He was even an extra official in Super Bowl II.

Famous Calls and Moments

Ben Dreith was known for being tough and fair. In 1983, he removed a player named Jack Lambert from a game. This was for a late hit on another player.

He is also famous for a funny penalty call in 1986. A player punched the quarterback after tackling him. Ben Dreith announced, "He's givin' him the business down there!" He even made a punching motion with his hand. This call became very memorable for football fans.

Leaving the Field

In 1990, Ben Dreith turned 65 years old. The NFL wanted him to work in the instant replay booth. He did not want to do that. So, he was moved to a different official job called "line judge."

After that season, he was let go from his job. Ben Dreith believed this was unfair. He felt it was because of his age.

He filed a complaint with a group called the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). This group helps protect people from unfair treatment at work.

The EEOC agreed with Ben Dreith. They said the NFL had treated him unfairly because of his age. This was against the law. The EEOC even sued the NFL. They said the NFL looked more closely at older officials' work.

In 1993, Ben Dreith and the NFL reached an agreement. He received $165,000. This showed that his complaint was taken seriously.

Later Life

Ben Dreith passed away on April 25, 2021. He was 96 years old. He is remembered as a well-known and respected football official.

See also

• List of American Football League officials