SOMERSET, Ky. (LEX 18) — Somerset High School Head Football Coach Charles 'Robbie' Lucas passed away over the weekend after battling illness. Now, the school is remembering his long-time legacy — on and off the field. As head coach, Lucas brought in seven Regional Championships and one Class 2A State Championship in 2019.
The district's superintendent Kyle Lively shared in a statement saying, in part, "he was an outstanding football coach, an excellent teacher, and an even better person. Coach Lucas always put others before himself and made countless sacrifices for the betterment of his players, coaches, and students."
Coach Lucas was at Somerset High School for more than two decades and, in that time, served as head coach for more than 10 years. Leaders at this school tell me that he was a tough coach but very caring and respected by the players.
Somerset High School Principal Jeff Wesley shared, "he was the embodiment of selflessness and will forever be etched in the hearts and history of Somerset High School." Tonight, high schools across the state will honor Coach Lucas by turning on their stadium lights. Many have also paid tribute on social media.
Lexington Christian Academy Head Coach Doug Charles says the two were unlikely friends — being from rival teams. He says Coach Lucas’ friendship is something he'll always remember.
"Well, he taught me, just reinforced some of the stuff that I believed in — you know, your faith and your family, your football, your kids are the things that are important. Things are gonna happen in football games that are gonna determine the outcome that you have no way to affect. But, the one thing that you can do is you can always stay true to yourself,” says Charles.
Communities across the state are remembering a long-time legacy.
