Ruta grateful for volunteer honor
Ted Ruta started working as a football referee to make a bit of extra money for his family.
A steady diet of recreational games eventually led to a lengthy career that included calling marquee Orange Bowl and Cotton Bowl matchups. There was a memorable Army-Navy game and a high-profile decision not to flag Ricky Williams for excessive celebration after he won the Heisman Trophy.
After Ruta retired, he figured he could help Florida Citrus Sports and stay close to the sport he loved. During more than two decades as an FCS volunteer, Ruta helped the organization launch a high school allstar showcase game. He also developed a hospitality program for referees, treating officials like the third team attending Orlando bowls and helping make the Central Florida games among the more popular destinations for refs.
“Every organization needs someone like Ted Ruta,” said Steve Hogan, CEO of Florida Citrus Sports. “Without these kinds of loyal volunteers, we don’t host games. There’s just no way we pull off the bowl games and everything else we keep adding without a lot of help.”
Ruta is this year’s recipient of the Howard Palmer Award, which is presented to a person who offers a lifetime of service to FCS.
“It’s really special to have people recognize you in this way,” Ruta said. “... It’s the top award they give. I just do what I do for the group because it’s a great organization. Football has always been a big part of my life and I thought I could help.”