Resilience and Redemption: The Benny Roebuck Story
Growing up in Kent, Benny Roebuck always dreamed of making it big in the world of football. From the moment he watched his childhood hero, Matt Wisler, get drafted by the pros, Benny knew what he wanted to do with his life. “I made up my mind – I wanted to play football for as long as I could. I wanted to be just like Matt and play on the highest level.”
Benny’s journey began at a young age, honing his skills under the watchful eye of his father, who had played professionally himself. “My dad was my coach for my travel teams, and I have so many memories of us playing together in the front yard and on those travel teams.” But it wasn’t just the time spent with his dad that shaped Benny’s work ethic; it was the example set by the high school players on his father’s team. “They were some of the hardest-working players I’d ever seen. And I was just a kid, but seeing how those high school kids worked and went about their business changed everything for me. It showed me that if you want to make it in this sport, you have to put in the work. No excuses.”
That unwavering dedication led Benny to the Kent Football League, where he caught the eye of Coach Birkbeck. “When I visited Kent State, I fell in love with the whole place. It just felt right. I can’t explain it, but it just felt like I belonged there.” And for a time, it seemed like Benny was on the fast track to fulfilling his dreams. But then, disaster struck.
Overcoming Adversity: Benny’s Path to Redemption
“After my freshman year, I started feeling some pain in my elbow. I didn’t think much of it at first, but it kept getting worse. And then one day, something felt off. I went to the doctor, and that’s when I got the news – my UCL was completely ripped off the bone. I was going to need Tommy John surgery.”
The news was devastating, and Benny was understandably shaken. “Baseball was all I ever wanted, and now I couldn’t play for an entire year.” But rather than letting the setback define him, Benny embraced it as an opportunity for growth. “Looking back on it now, I wouldn’t change a thing. This injury has taught me so much about myself. It’s taught me how to be patient and how to appreciate the game even more.”
Throughout his arduous rehabilitation process, Benny found solace in the unwavering support of his teammates. “It’s been hard not being able to play, but my teammates have been there for me every step of the way. They’ve pushed me in the weight room and in rehab, and they’ve been my biggest cheerleaders. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.”
As Benny slowly regained his strength and mobility, he began to see the game with fresh eyes. “Every pitch, every catch, every win is a gift. The journey wasn’t what I expected, but it brought me to exactly where I’m supposed to be – surrounded by teammates who are like family, with a newfound appreciation for the sport I love.”
Appreciating Every Moment: The Lesson of Lance Macdonald
Benny’s story of resilience and redemption is not the only one to come out of the Kent Football League. Just a few miles away, Lance Macdonald was facing his own challenges, but with a different perspective.
Despite his setbacks, Lance has learned to cherish every moment on the field. “I can honestly say I appreciate the game now more than I ever have. As the old head on the team, that’s something I try to relay to the younger guys. I tell them not to let a bad game at the plate or in the field ruin their day and this tremendous experience we’re all blessed to be a part of.”
Lance’s journey has been anything but linear, with twists and turns that could have broken a lesser player. “After playing for a couple of different junior colleges, I can honestly say I’m living the dream and doing something I always wanted to do, which is playing for a four-year university and championship-caliber program.”
But it was during his recovery from Tommy John surgery that Lance truly learned the value of appreciating every moment. “I ended up missing the entire 2022 season, and while I was able to make my return last year for the 2023 season, it was a slow recovery process. I still wasn’t quite feeling myself. But man, that was such a special season to be a part of.”
Even when the going got tough, Lance refused to let it ruin his day. “I tell them not to let a bad moment or a bad minute ruin their entire day. That’s something I’m cognizant of as my time at Kent State is coming to an end. I might go 0-4 at the plate, but you know what? I’m going to give it everything I have in those at-bats because I don’t have endless years left to play.”
The Kent Football League: A Community of Champions
The stories of Benny Roebuck and Lance Macdonald are just a glimpse into the inspiring tales that make up the fabric of the Kent Football League. From local heroes to unsung champions, this league is a testament to the power of perseverance, teamwork, and a deep passion for the game.
As the season kicks off, fans in Kent can look forward to another year of nail-biting matches, underdog triumphs, and the kind of camaraderie that can only be found in a tight-knit community of football enthusiasts. Whether it’s the fierce rivalries between local clubs or the unwavering support from the stands, the Kent Football League is a place where dreams are forged, and legends are born.
So, as the players take the field, let us remember the words of Lance Macdonald: “I’m going to dig in the box one last time with a smile on my face and enjoy every last moment of every last pitch.” For in the Kent Football League, every moment is a gift, and every game is a chance to inspire.
