Friends of Basketball

Ben Drust

Year Inducted: 1991

Category: Friends of Basketball

Schools / Organizations:
Zieglaer-Royalton High School

Biography: Ben Drust was the official scorer for Ziegler-Royalton High School for many years. He injured his knee as a Z-R freshman and found his athletic career was at an end. But Drust kept involved where he could best help the team he longed to play for. He first sat behind the scorer’s book in 1951. He was in the midst of the action at Ziegler-Royalton High School and Grade School games along with being on the sidelines as a member of the Z-R Chain Gang at football games. A former Z-R coach said of Drust, “Drust’s ability and professionalism as a scorekeeper is unmatched in Southern Illinois. Drust has kept score at almost every gymnasium in the Z-R area and is second to none as a scorekeeper. It isn’t uncommon for game officials to comment on what a good job Ben did at the scorer’s bench.” Drust keeps the book for between 75 and 80 games a year at grade school and high school levels. He doesn’t get tired of the game. “It’s just that I’ve always been interested in sports,” Drust said. “Despite the intensity of the players on the floor, it relaxes me. I never get wound up; I have a job to do and I can’t let my emotions interfere with it. But down inside I’m a fan.I love to see them win.” For his labors, Drust has received a “ringside” seat as the story of modern high school basketball has unfolded. From the two-handed “kiss-shot” to the jump shot, from the underhand free throw to the high pressure, high scoring games, Drust saw it all.

Ben Drust died on January 26, 2012 at the age of 75.