RONAN — The rest of Connor Benn’s senior year should be relatively stress free.

The Ronan senior signed a football scholarship with Montana State University-Northern last Wednesday, becoming the first Lake County senior to ink with a collegiate program this year.

“I’m just excited to have another chance to do what I love to do,” Benn said.

A quarterback and cornerback for the Chiefs, Benn earned a Class B all-state nod and first-team all-District 6-B honors at both positions.

In 2013, Benn tallied 1,049 total yards, including 589 rushing yards and three touchdowns. He averaged 6.1 yards per carry for the 4-4 Chiefs.

He was named an alternate for the Montana East-West Shrine Game on Christmas Day, 2013.

“It was all about finding a place that fits,” Jim Benn, Connor’s father and Ronan’s head coach said. “They have a good program. Havre’s a great town.”

Mark Samson, entering his 11th season as the head coach of the Lights, saw a lot that he liked in the younger Benn both on and off the field.

“There’s a couple things going for him that are to his advantage,” Samson said. “We’re just impressed with the kid. He’s very mature. I like the way he handles himself.”

At this point, Samson said, he could see Benn playing anywhere from safety to slot receiver. Samson said that he expects Benn to redshirt his first year, giving him time to get stronger and find a position.

“When I say that, he’s just a competitive person and he may come over here next year and surprise us,” Samson added.

Though he’s only 5-8, 160 pounds, Samson doesn’t expect Benn to have any trouble adjusting.

“Although he may not be the biggest player on the field, he’s very competitive,” the Lights’ coach said. “…That’s going to bode well for him here.”