Salt Bowl Benton
Freddie Rhinehart was undoubtably a fixture in the Benton community; everyone seemed to know his name. He was perhaps best known for his love of Benton Panthers sports. In fact, he was often referred to as their “No. 1 fan,” and even had a shirt saying so. Sadly, there will be a void on the sidelines this season, as Benton’s own superfan passed away on February 18, 2024, at the age of 73.
He was often described as the man with a “warm smile and child-like innocence.” He was always at the games simply because he loved football and loved the kids. His love for Benton sports was evident in every game he attended. His enthusiasm and spirit uplifted everyone around him.
During the football season, his Thursdays and Fridays were always blocked out
so he could cheer on the junior high and high school teams. Freddie once told me, “Going to games keeps me going and gives me something to look forward to.” The Benton Panther team gives an award at the end of each football season named the Freddie Rhinehart Award for the players who are loyal, dependable, and put the
team first.
Benton Superintendent Kim Anderson said that Rhinehart is the first name that comes to mind when you think of Benton Athletics. “He was one of the first people I met when I moved to Benton. He bled maroon and gray. Benton will not be the same without him. Freddie will never be forgotten.”
The entire Benton community mourned the loss of a true treasure in Freddie Rhinehart. He left his mark on the school, the city, and even me. I was honored to call him a friend and always enjoyed my times talking with him when we crossed paths in downtown Benton.
Personally, I can’t imagine football games without Freddie, but I can promise his memory will always live on! And of course, I’m not the only one who feels that way. “Friday nights will not be the same without Freddie on the sidelines or at the games;
he will be missed by our football family,” said Benton Panther football Head
Coach Brad Harris.
Freddie was more than just a fan, he truly embodied what the Salt Bowl is all about: positive energy for our community! As we celebrate the 50th match-up between the Bryant Hornets and Benton Panthers, let’s do it the ”Rhinehart Way” as he represented the “Gold Standard” of sportsmanship and camaraderie. Your town.
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