2025 End of season with Lucas Fickel from Olentangy Orange

 

Name: Lucas Fickel

School/town: Olentangy Orange High School – Lewis Center, Ohio

Positions played: Running Back

Class: 2026

Height and Weight: 6’0”, 210 lbs.

GPA: 3.89

40 yards: 4.5

100 meters: 11.08

Degree preference: Cyber Security

Jersey Number:

#2

Awards won or earned:

Ohio Division I State Champion (2025) 15-0

First Team All-Ohio (2025)

Mr. Ohio Nominee (2025)

First Team All-District (2025)

OCC Offensive Player of the Year (2025)

First Team All-OCC (2025)

HUDL LINK:

www.hudl.com/profile/19559137

Other sports played:

Track

Ice Hockey

What were your feelings as you were walking off the field as a state champion?

First of all, I was extremely cold. I’ve said before that I’m pretty even-tempered and don’t get overly excited, but I was definitely excited regardless of the temperature. On the way home, I kept thinking about how I couldn’t have finished my senior season any better than that.

Now that you have had some time, what do you feel you will miss the most from playing high school football?

This is a tough one, but I think I’ll miss the preparation between games and the pregame routine on Fridays the most.

Other than winning the state title, what was your biggest moment as a high school football player?

With so many moments to choose from, I would say my 74-yard touchdown at historic Crew Stadium against Pickerington Central. That play really made me feel like we could win the state championship.

Who was the best player that you faced in a game, along with the team he was on?

Carter Kuhn from Olentangy Liberty was a very solid tackler, and their defense played very well. We played several teams with Division I commitments, but that matchup stood out.

Did the size of the crowd surprise you at the state title game?

Not really. Our crowd had been amazing since the first game in Marysville, and they showed up the same way for the state championship.

What was the biggest lesson that you learned from playing high school football?

Adversity and mental toughness. Things don’t always go your way, and you have to stay patient. I wanted to be a starter, but sometimes you have to wait for your opportunity and be ready when it comes.

What mark do you feel that your class left on the football program?

We showed that it takes a combination of hard work, brotherhood, and talent to achieve more than you think you’re capable of.

What made you a good teammate?

Being a quiet leader, but also being willing to step up, speak my mind when needed, and help teach my teammates.

How would you describe your style of play?

I’m a downhill runner who isn’t afraid of contact and values gaining extra yards over trying to juke someone.

If you are invited to play in any of the all-star games, will you? Explain

Although I appreciate the offers, I would likely decline to make sure I’m healthy and ready to begin my college career.

Why should a college coach recruit you?

Most coaches have told me they like that I’m only 17, that I’m a quiet leader, and that I focus more on production and helping the team than making things about myself.

Would you share with the reader how the recruiting process has gone, as well as some of the schools that are recruiting you?

I have had several Division II and Division III schools offer or reach out. Right now, my top official D1 visits are Army, Yale, and Navy, along with a few other schools I’m currently in communication with. The recruiting process has taken a lot of work, especially since I should technically be a junior, but I’m a senior.

What is a style or fad that your generation has that you do not get?

I honestly don’t understand first-down celebrations. Just do your job.

Who are your role models?

Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson from Ohio State for the way they run the ball. My dad for pushing me to work harder. My high school coach for his competitiveness.

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