Benjamin "Doc" Roller carved a unique path in the early days of American football. While his professional football career was impressive, it served more as a springboard for his academic pursuits and, surprisingly, his professional wrestling career.
Image of George Hackenschmidt with Ben Roller, 1911 Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Roller's athletic prowess emerged early. Despite his relatively small stature, he excelled in football and track at DePauw University, becoming captain of both teams. This success paved the way for him to attend the University of Pennsylvania, where he continued to play football while funding his education through athletics.
Roller's professional football career spanned from 1898 to 1902. He played for several prominent teams, including the Pittsburgh Athletic Club and the Philadelphia Athletic Club. The highlight of this period was undoubtedly his participation in the early iterations of the "World Series of Football." He played in the championship game in both 1902 and 1903, showcasing his skills on the national stage.
However, football was not Roller's sole passion. He was also a dedicated student, graduating from the University of Pennsylvania's medical school with top honors. This academic achievement earned him the nickname "Doc," which would follow him throughout his life.
While some athletes might have focused solely on their medical career, Roller continued to be a man of many talents. He leveraged his athletic background to secure a professorship at the University of Washington, overseeing the university's athletic programs. This role allowed him to promote physical fitness and hygiene, two causes he deeply believed in.
Intriguingly, Roller's athletic pursuits took an unexpected turn. In 1904, he transitioned from the gridiron to the wrestling mat. His wrestling career spanned an impressive 27 years, and he earned the moniker "The Pride of Seattle." While details about his wrestling success are scarce, it's clear that his athletic prowess transcended the world of football.
Benjamin "Doc" Roller's story is a testament to the versatility of early 20th-century athletes. He thrived not only on the football field but also in the classroom and the wrestling ring. His life serves as a reminder that athletic talent can pave the way for success in various fields, both physical and academic.
