Beaver Tales
Keith Kenderdine
Friday, May 17, 2024
Story by Elizabeth Shelley, Writer and Co-founder, Behind the Dam
The heart of Oregon State University’s campus beats the pulse of Beaver Nation, a vibrant community bound together by a shared love for football. Among the throngs of devoted fans, one figure stands out: Keith Kenderdine, a 30-year-old transplant from the East Coast whose journey to the Pacific Northwest was guided by an unwavering passion for the game. From the bustling streets of Pennsylvania to the serene landscapes of Oregon, Keith’s story is one of dedication, community, and the unbreakable bonds forged through the spirit of collegiate sports. As we delve into the narrative of Keith’s life, we uncover the remarkable Tale of a man who found his true home in the embrace of Beaver Nation.
Keith’s journey to Oregon State was not just a geographical relocation but a pilgrimage to find his place within a community that resonated with his spirit. Reflecting on his transition, Keith shares, “All my life I loved college football…but growing up, it was always the Eagles because I grew up in Pennsylvania, and we didn’t really grow up rooting for a college team.” However, fate intervened when he found himself on the verdant campus of Oregon State University. “And when I moved out here, of course, I got a job at the university and saw it as the perfect opportunity. So that’s why I’m such a huge fan even though I didn’t grow up here,” he explains.
For Keith, Beaver Nation represented more than just a fan base; it was a familial embrace that filled the void left by his family back on the East Coast. “Coming from a very small family back on the East Coast, being out here, Beaver Nation truly feels like my family,” he shares.
Keith’s journey as an Oregon State Football fan took a remarkable turn when he was allowed to attend the team’s practices. Reflecting on this experience, Keith shares, “I made a very good impression on many players and staff during my first season supporting the Beavs.” His dedication and genuine support for the team didn’t go unnoticed, leading to an invitation to attend practice sessions. Keith’s commitment to the team grew stronger from that moment on. “Now in year 3, I’m at every practice, scrimmage, pro day, you name it,” he proudly declares.
Attending practices allowed Keith to immerse himself in the team’s environment, forging deeper connections with players, coaches, and fellow fans. “It’s been an incredible experience,” Keith reflects, “and I always thank everyone involved for giving me the opportunity.” Keith has become an integral part of the Beaver Nation community through his active involvement.
His dedication knows no bounds, encompassing even the team’s away games. “While I take pride in being around and supporting the team as much as I can, it breaks my heart that I’m not able to make it to all the away games,” Keith admits. Yet, his commitment remains steadfast, as he recounts camping out in front of the Valley Football Center after away games just to greet the returning team.
For Keith, being part of Beaver Nation isn’t just about cheering from the sidelines; it’s about embodying the spirit of loyalty and support that defines the community. “Everyone on the Beavs is a legend in my book,” he declares.
His reverence for Oregon State’s culture is clear as he reflects on the values that set it apart. “I think the view that I get at Oregon State is that it’s a little more unique than some other schools,” Keith observes. “The word family and culture are often mentioned, and I think that’s what makes Oregon State special.”
Keith’s passion for football extends beyond the confines of Reser, as he dedicates his spare time to working on a project close to his heart: NCAA Next. This college football video game, a modernization of a game from 2006, has become a labor of love for Keith and his fellow volunteers. “For the last few years, I have volunteered much of my spare time to work on NCAA Next as a developer and social media manager,” Keith reveals.
His involvement in NCAA Next goes beyond mere technical contributions; it’s a testament to his commitment to the sport. “Everything I do in my spare time usually revolves around sports,” Keith explains. Through his work on NCAA Next, Keith channels his passion for football into a project that resonates deeply with fans of the sport.
Among the sea of fans at Oregon State football games, Keith Kenderdine stands out for his unwavering support and a unique accessory that has become synonymous with his fandom—the Benny Beaver necklace.
“I wear a Benny Beaver around my neck,” Keith chuckles. “To be quite honest with you, I would probably stop doing it because it’s a little uncomfortable.” Despite the discomfort, Keith’s dedication to showcasing his Beaver pride knows no bounds. “Everybody compliments me on it,” he acknowledges. “They say, ‘Oh, I love the Benny Beaver.’ It’s like, okay, I gotta wear this every time, or I’ll hear about it!”
The necklace has become more than just an accessory for Keith—it symbolizes his commitment to the team. “There was one game I forgot it, and I didn’t hear the end of it,” Keith recalls with amusement. “Everybody was asking, ‘Where’s the Benny Beaver?’ It’s like, okay, I’m gonna wear this every time now.”
For Keith, the Benny Beaver necklace serves as a conversation starter, a beacon of Beaver Nation camaraderie that brings fans together in celebration of their beloved team. Whether uncomfortable or not, Keith wears it proudly, knowing it’s a small way to show his support for the Beavs.
Among his prized possessions are a game ball from the Utah game signed by the whole team, DJ Uiagalelei’s arm sleeve from the Washington game, and gloves signed by Rejzohn Wright and his brother after a memorable game against Stanford. Each item holds a special place in his heart, serving as tangible reminders of the moments and players that have left an indelible mark on his fandom.
Reflecting on his journey as an Oregon State fan, Keith fondly recounts his encounters with some of the team’s brightest stars, each moment leaving an indelible mark on his fandom.
“Watching the TV show ‘Last Chance U’ introduced me to Rejzohn Wright,” Keith reminisces. “He was that season’s star, the total package—a cornerback with swagger and skill.” Rejzohn’s decision to commit to Oregon State excited Keith, planting the seed for a fateful encounter. “I attended a team event at a car dealership, expecting only a few players to be there,” he recalls. “But to my surprise, the whole team was there, including Rejzohn.” Their meeting proved to be a pivotal moment for Keith, marking his official welcome into Beaver Nation. “When I posted a picture with him on social media, Rejzohn retweeted it and became my first follower,” Keith shares with a hint of disbelief.
But Rejzohn wasn’t the only player to capture Keith’s admiration. “Damien Martinez quickly became one of my favorite Beavers,” Keith asserts. “Despite his recent transfer, his impact on the team was profound.” The spring game introduced Keith to Damien, a freshman standout whose potential shone brightly. “It was a privilege to witness his journey from the start.”
Another player who left an enduring impression on Keith was DJ Uiagalelei. “DJ’s decision to transfer to Oregon State was a game-changer,” Keith reflects. “It signified a commitment to family and culture over fame and fortune.” Building a bond with DJ and his family became a cherished experience for Keith. “After games, DJ would take the time to connect with fans like me,” Keith shares with gratitude. “His generosity, like gifting me a game ball signed by the whole team after our victory against Utah, is something I’ll never forget.”
Transitioning from past Oregon State players to Keith’s current favorites on the team, his admiration for the Beavers continues to shine brightly. Keith holds two players in particularly high regard on the current roster: Jaden Robinson and Joshua Gray. “My favorite Beavers on this year’s team are Jaden Robinson and Joshua Gray,” Keith reveals. He commends them for not only their athletic achievements but also their unwavering loyalty to Oregon State. Keith has had numerous meaningful interactions with them and their families, deepening his appreciation for their character both on and off the field.
As Keith reflects on his journey as an Oregon State fan, he shares his ultimate dream with genuine humility. “My ultimate dream as an Oregon State fan would be to have some official role with the team, whether as a volunteer or in a job capacity,” he reveals. His gratitude for the opportunity to support the team at practices and games is palpable, yet he remains hopeful for deeper involvement. “However, I’m already so thankful for the opportunity to support the team at practices and games, so anything beyond that would be a bonus,” he adds.
Keith Kenderdine’s journey through the heart of Beaver Nation is a testament to the transformative power of collegiate sports. Through his journey, Keith found a love for football and a family in the sea of fans that make up Beaver Nation.
Perhaps most importantly, Keith’s story highlights the deep sense of belonging that comes from being part of Beaver Nation. From proudly wearing his Benny Beaver necklace to sharing cherished moments with players and fellow fans, Keith has found a home among the orange and black.
As Keith looks to the future with hope and gratitude, his ultimate dream of deeper involvement with the team reflects his unwavering commitment to Beaver Nation. Whether on the sidelines or behind the scenes, Keith’s journey inspires fans everywhere, reminding us that the true essence of sports lies not just in the victories on the field but in the connections forged and the community that stands together, united in their love for the game.
If you want to follow Keith on social media, connect with him on X (@GoBeavs2k).
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Photo by Elizabeth Benson, Behind The Dam
Photo courtesy of Kevin Lint