Cony senior quarterback Ben Lucas called the months-long recruiting process “hectic” and “busy.”

That process came to a close Tuesday when the 6-foot-4 record-setting Lucas announced he would sign a National Letter of Intent on Wednesday to play football for the University of Maine.

“It’s a big relief,” said Lucas, who gave a verbal commitment to Maine on Tuesday. “It was really hectic. I was always getting calls from coaches and was being looked at by a lot of different people. I’m glad it’s over.”

The football signing period begins Wednesday.

UMaine coach Jack Cosgrove was unavailable for comment. NCAA rules prohibit college coaches from commenting on a recruit until the school receives a National Letter of Intent.

Lucas said he will receive a half athletic scholarship with the opportunity for more financial assistance. He added that Maine, Assumption College and Bryant were his final three choices.

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“Maine was where I wanted to go,” Lucas said. “I grew up rooting for Maine. When they offered, it was hard to say no.”

Lucas led Cony to the Class B state championship this season, a thrilling 30-23 victory over Kennebunk at UMaine.

He threw for 307 yards and three touchdowns in the second half alone as Cony erased a 16-0 deficit and rallied for the improbable victory in the final minute of play.

Lucas threw for 3,357 yards and a state record 41 touchdowns this season. On Jan. 19, he won the annual James J. Fitzpatrick Trophy, which is given to the top senior in the state.

He finished his career with a state record 89 touchdowns and 7,575 yards.

Lucas acknowledged Maine showed lukewarm interest early on, but things changed during Cony’s playoff run.

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“Maine’s interest really picked up after the state game,” Lucas said.

Lucas added that he likely will redshirt next season, although “nothing has been finalized.”

“We’ll see what happens,” Lucas said. “It might be the best situation for me, to go there and just get adjusted to college first. I’m really happy. This brings a smile to my face.”

Bill Stewart — 621-5640bstewart@centralmaine.comTwitter: @billstewartkj


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