Ben Burkeen made it official on Friday at Marshall County High School that he plans to continue his soccer career at Kentucky Wesleyan College in Owensboro, Ky. The Panthers play in the Great Midwest Athletic Conference.
During his successful career as the starting goalie for the Marshall County boy’s soccer team, Ben was a big part of the Marshals 2019 Region 1 championship team, 2020 Region 1 runner-up team and the Marshals third straight 2nd District title this past fall.
Ben led the state for two consecutive years in shut outs while setting the school record in both season and career shut outs. In his senior season, Ben had 10 complete game shutouts in their 16 games played.
He won the 2020 “Good Hands Award”, a state-wide recognition for goalkeepers. He earned selections to the All-District Team, All-Region 1st Team in 2019 and 2020 and the All-Purchase Team.
Ben said of his decision to attend Kentucky Wesleyan and play for Head Coach John Fusco, “It’s close to home and I really liked the coach. He’s from around here, from Lone Oak. The campus and team is like a family atmosphere.”
Ben said he will be competing for the starting goalie position with another incoming freshman. He plans to major in Business Management.
Ben is a member of FCA and the Gold Club at MCHS and a member of Benton Church of Christ.
In the gallery below, joining Ben on Friday at his signing – members of his family, soccer coaches David Alvey, Bryan Blevins, Cory Westerfield and Tyler McKenty, members of the soccer team and friends. (click on photos to view larger image)
