An outstanding fullback for Proctor High School in 1957. but overlooked by top college teams, Ben Rizzo went to the University of Miami (Florida) as a "walk-on" and developed into one of its best defensive ends of all time.

After a semester at MVCC and with money saved from a construction job, Rizzo enrolled as a freshman at Miami in the fall of 1959. During spring practice his outstanding performance earned him a starting position at defensive end. As time went along, offensive duties were added and he scored important touchdowns on passes his junior and senior years.

In the 1961 Liberty Bowl, Syracuse, with the legendary Ernie Davis, edged Miami, 15-14. The following season, Ben Rizzo was elected Captain. After another heartbreaking bowl loss to Nebraska, 36-34, he was showered with honors, including All-Florida for the second year, Honorable Mention All-America and participation in the North-South Shrine game, where, 'as captain of the South squad, he led his team to victory, 21-14.

For the next three years, he was the property, at various times, of the Houston Oilers, Philadelphia Eagles and Miami Dolphins. He played in 1964 for the Mohawk Valley Falcons of the Atlantic Coast League, taking the scoring title with his remarkable pass receptions.

Having received his degree from Miami in 1963, Ben Rizzo started teaching and coaching in the Utica area, turning in an outstanding football record at Notre Dame High School, including two Central Oneida League titles and eight city championships. His 1969 team was ranked third in New York State.

In later years he has been employed with the United Food and Commercial Workers Union.