Ben Conken, West Florida Football Participant, Dies at 20 After Cancer Battle

Ben Conken, a former West Florida soccer participant who battled most cancers after becoming a member of this system, died Monday, Aug. 17, at age 20, in response to his obituary.

Ben Conken Dies After Cancer Battle

Conken signed with the University of West Florida Argonauts as a part of the group’s 2024 recruiting class.

The 6-foot-3, 205-pound defensive exterior linebacker was a standout at Cottage Hill Christian Academy in Mobile, Alabama. He by no means performed in a recreation for West Florida after his most cancers battle started.

“Shortly after joining our program, he began a hard fought battle with cancer but continued to show his support for UWF,” West Florida Athletics mentioned in an announcement. “He will forever remain a member of this team and an Argo for life.”

Before school, Conken had a powerful senior season at Cottage Hill. He recorded 85 tackles, 10 sacks and 5 pressured fumbles. He additionally performed basketball and baseball, the NY Post reported.

Cottage Hill head coach Carvel Jones remembered Conken as a “dawg on the football field.” Jones additionally mentioned he would always remember Conken’s smile, at the same time as he went via most cancers remedy.

Ben Conken’s Football Dream Remembered

For Conken, soccer was greater than a sport. His obituary mentioned it was his favourite and that he dreamed of taking part in Division I soccer. He reached that purpose when he earned a scholarship to play defensive exterior linebacker for West Florida.

The obituary additionally described Conken as a extremely aggressive participant who cared about sportsmanship, equity and character.

According to DailyMail, he lived by the phrases “get up and do something,” selecting to remain energetic and assist others moderately than merely watch from the sidelines.

Even whereas receiving care, Conken labored to be taught from the individuals serving to him, with the purpose of giving again to others. His obituary mentioned he admired individuals who noticed a necessity and quietly stepped in to assist with out searching for reward.

Cottage Hill Christian Academy mentioned in an announcement that “our hearts are broken by his passing.” The faculty additionally mentioned Conken knew the Lord and positioned his religion in Him.

West Florida mentioned Conken will stay a part of the Argonauts household, whereas his former faculty continues to honor the younger athlete they knew and beloved.