Cony senior Ben Lucas acknowledged he’s never written a speech in his young life.
He found out Wednesday afternoon that will soon change.
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The record-setting quarterback was named a finalist for the annual James J. Fitzpatrick Trophy, marking the second time in as many years a Cony player earned that distinction.
Lucas joins Kennebunk running back Nicco DeLorenzo and Portland running back Justin Zukowski as finalists.
The winner will be announced at a banquet Jan. 19 at the Holiday Inn By the Bay in Portland.
“It’s an honor,” Lucas said. “A tremendous honor. It’s a position I thought I’d be in but I’m very, very excited. I’ve never done a speech before so I’ll have to get in touch with some people who have.”
One of those people will be former Cony standout wide receiver/defensive back Chandler Shostak, who last year was named a finalist for the award.
“I watched him a lot with how he handled that process,” Lucas said.
Now, it’s Lucas’ turn.
Lucas led Cony to a 10-2 season that culminated with the Class B state championship. It marked the first time in program history that Cony won a state championship game.
Lucas was a big reason for the success.
He threw for 3,500 yards and a state record 41 touchdowns. Lucas finished his career with a state record 89 touchdown passes.
He saved his best game for his last, too.
The 6-foot-4, 227-pound Lucas led Cony past Kennebunk 30-23 in a dramatic and memorable Class B state game at the University of Maine in Orono.
He threw for 347 yards — 307 in the second half — and three touchdowns. His last one went to Jonathan Saban with a minute left in the game that gave Cony a 30-23 lead.
“Being nominated for the Fitzy is really just a reflection of our season,” Lucas said. “It’s quite an honor but I wouldn’t be here without my teammates.”
Bill Stewart — 621-5640bstewart@centralmaine.comTwitter: @billstewartkj
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