Even after Ben Miller's competitive wrestling career ended, his urge to be on the mat didn't go away. He found officiating to be the perfect way to continue his association with the sport, leading to a career that made him one of Colorado's most-recognized officials. Before Miller finally hung up his whistle, he had officiated 16 Colorado high school state championships, 11 NCAA Division II national championships and 9 NCAA Division I championships, as well as a long list of NCAA regionals and conference tournaments, national duals and other national tournaments. "I just fell in love with it," Miller said. "I enjoyed being a successful official. You are still involved with the sport and in a way you have to compete with other officials as you move up the ladder. I liked the adrenaline; I liked making the tough call and selling the call. It was even more fun at the college level. I didn't mind the stress or conflict "” that was part of the battle." Miller grew up in Colorado and wrestled at Valley High School before walking on at the University of Wyoming for a year. Thanks to some guidance from Gary Sandau (a 2011 Colorado Chapter HOF honoree), he became involved with officiating and made his Colorado state tournament debut in 1988, the first of 16 straight. He was named the state's official of the year in 2003 and 2006, and served as president of the Colorado Wrestling Officials Association from 2003-2006. Ben also branched out to calling college matches, calling NCAA Division I and Division II championships, as well as regional and conference championships. No matter the level, however, Miller's philosophy was always the same. "I understood the passion of coaches and what their job was," Miller said. "I didn't react to coaches being upset. I knew what they were trying to do. I tried to let them talk and let them have their say. They're doing their job and we're doing our job. They're doing everything they can do for their wrestler and we're trying to be as fair as possible. We have to make the call and you have to have the confidence that you made the right call." The vast majority of Miller's calls were obviously right, as he was chosen to return to major tournaments year after year. He never thought his career would lead to Hall of Fame recognition. "When I got the call I was completely blown away," he said. "It's nice to be recognized for the work that we put in. You think about traveling all the miles, late nights... Our great sport doesn't get enough recognition and it's humbling and an honor to be included with all the people who have been honored."