Conken, a 6-foot-3, 205-pound defensive outside linebacker from Cottage Hill Christian Academy in Mobile, Alabama, signed with the University of West Florida as part of its 2024 recruiting class.
But shortly after joining the Argonauts, Conken was diagnosed with cancer.
The illness prevented him from ever taking the field in a college game, but he remained close to the team and continued supporting the program throughout his treatment.
“Shortly after joining our program, he began a hard fought battle with cancer but continued to show his support for UWF,” West Florida Athletics said in a statement.
“He will forever remain a member of this team and an Argo for life.”
Before college, Conken had been a standout athlete at Cottage Hill Christian Academy.
During his senior football season, he recorded 85 tackles, 10 sacks and five forced fumbles.
He also competed in basketball and baseball.
His former high school coach, Carvel Jones, remembered him as a “dawg on the football field” and said Conken continued to flash his trademark smile even while going through treatment.
Cottage Hill Christian Academy said the school community was devastated by his death.
“Our hearts are broken by his passing,” the school said.
Tributes have since poured in from former teammates, coaches, friends and family members.
According to his obituary, football was Conken’s favorite sport and he had dreamed of one day playing at the college level.
He eventually earned a scholarship as a defensive outside linebacker at West Florida.
“Ben was intensely competitive, but never at the expense of sportsmanship, fairness, and character,” his obituary said.
The tribute also remembered Conken for living by the phrase, “get up and do something.”
Even while receiving care, he reportedly remained focused on learning from the doctors, nurses and staff around him so he could one day help others.
“His heroes were those who saw a need, had the ability to meet it, and quietly answered the call without praise, recognition, or reward,” his obituary said.
Cottage Hill Christian Academy also said Conken’s faith had been a source of comfort for those grieving him.
“While our hearts are broken by his passing, we are comforted by the knowledge that he knew the Lord and placed his faith in Him,” the school said.
“His earthly battle is over, and we trust that he is now resting in the presence of his Savior.”
He plays for the Lord now.