KENNEDY AWARD. It is West Virginia’s high school version of college football’s Heisman Trophy. It’s symbolic of the Mountain State’s schoolboy Player of the Year and has been annually presented by the sponsoring W.Va. Sports Writers Association since 1947. Determined by balloting of the WVSWA membership, the award trophy is funded by Wheeling’s WesBanco Bank via the estate of the late HARRISON KENNEDY. The Wheeling native originated the award after the New York City stockbroker, and Downtown Athletic Club member, became chairman of the Heisman Trophy selection committee. With regular-season play wrapping up this weekend in the Mountain State, it’s time to pinpoint leading contenders for the award a couple of weeks before the ballots are distributed to the voting electorate. Here’s some of the top candidates, listed alphabetically: JUSTIN FOX, Magnolia — This third-year starting junior is one reason the Blue Eagles were 9-0 entering Friday night’s finale at Grafton after finishing last season as the state Class AA runner-up to the Bearcats. Versatility is the trademark of the quarterback-defensive back-kicker-returner who has accounted for more than1,000 total offense yards and 13 touchdowns via passing, rushing, pass interception and punt returns. He’s also kicked 37 conversions and three field goals. The son of one of Paden City’s most honored three-sport athletes, JEFF FOX, is seeking to become only the second Blue Eagle to be so honored.