20-Year-Old Football Player Ben Conken Dies After Cancer Battle

Ben Conken, a talented football player who had earned a scholarship to the University of West Florida, died Monday, Aug. 17, at just 20 years old after battling cancer.

The 6-foot-3 linebacker was part of West Florida’s 2024 recruiting class after an impressive senior season at Cottage Hill Christian Academy in Alabama, where he recorded 85 tackles, 10 sacks and five forced fumbles.

But Conken’s impact went far beyond football. Coaches remembered him as a hardworking, kind-hearted young man who always brought a smile into the room.

Even after his diagnosis, he continued supporting the Argonaut football program and remained grateful to the people who cared for him.

He loved hunting and fishing, his family, his Christian faith and helping others. His favorite saying was “get up and do something.”

Conken died surrounded by his loved ones.

He leaves behind his parents, siblings and grandparents, along with teammates, coaches and friends who say his life made a lasting difference.

Gone far too soon, but never forgotten. ❤️