DAKOTA ALLEN

Gives back to his alma mater

By Jimmie Aggison

Former Summer Creek High School football standout, Dakota Allen, has come back to his alma mater hoping to inspire the next generation of leaders.

“It feels amazing because I was them, walking these hallways, and for them to see me and see where I’m at, I hope it gives them that little extra push to let them know they can do it too,” said Allen.

Three years ago, Allen established the Dakota Allen Foundation with the purpose of assisting underprivileged youth who lacked essential resources. His goal was to inspire and support the youth in pursuing their dreams, whether it was making it to the NFL or attending college. In May, Allen awarded fve $2,000 scholarships to deserving Summer Creek seniors as part of his foundation’s initiatives.

“While I was there, I realized, this is my home, this is where I’m from. Let’s do more, let’s have a youth football camp here. I talked to Coach Harrison, I talked to the principal and we were able to make it happen,” said Allen.

July 22 served as the camp’s frst inaugural session. Allen was careful to teach, but allow the kids to have fun, as well. For the older kids, he aimed to introduce more competitive elements similar to what happens in NFL practices. For the younger kids, he focused on ensuring they had fun.

“I didn’t want them to perceive football as a burden or too much work. Instead, I simply wanted them to enjoy themselves and understand that football is ultimately a game meant to be fun, just like when we frst started playing it,” said Allen.

While at the camp Allen was able to help a middle school athlete who wore size 16 shoes. His mother was having trouble fnding shoes in his size, so he reported to camp in basketball shoes. Afer speaking with Allen, the Dakota Allen Foundation made arrangements to get the young man cleats.

“I asked her, ‘Does he really want to play football?’ And I looked at him in his eyes and he said, ‘Yes sir; I want to play football.’ So, we’re going to get him some cleats because that’s what we’re here to do. We’re here to allow everybody the opportunity. All you have to do is work hard, have discipline, and you can achieve anything,” said Allen.

Allen is no stranger to hard work. He began playing football when he was four years old for the Humble Area Youth Football League (HAFL). He played there until he went to Humble Middle School. Afer that, he attended Summer Creek High School.

Allen’s talent on the feld while at Sum mer Creek allowed him to be awarded a scholarship to play football at Texas Tech University.

“I was blessed, but I had some unfortunate events happen, so I lef Texas Tech and enrolled at East Mississippi Junior College. Tat’s when I really learned about faith and having God on your side,” said Allen.

Afer one year of junior college, Allen was given another opportunity to return to Texas Tech University as a team Captain.

“I thank Coach Kliff Kingsbury for that because if it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t be in the position I’m in today,” said Allen.

After finishing his junior and senior years at Texas Tech Allen entered the 2019 NFL draf and was drafed in the seventh round with pick #251 to the Los Angeles Rams.

“It was surreal. I originally thought I would get picked earlier, but as I saw those rounds go by, I began to have that fear of, ‘Maybe I’ll never play football again.’ Te fourth to last pick; when I got that call, man it was unbelievable. Te best feeling I’ve had this far,” said Allen.

Allen understands what it takes to be suc cessful on the next level. His advice to high school athletes is simple. ences that come with youth.”