PLAYER spotlight

How did you first get into football then Josh?

I started playing the Madden video game as a teenager and it quickly became an obsession. I began looking for a team so I could give it a go myself and found the Sheffield Tomahawks [the Junior side at the time]. It was a two hour round trip but I managed to convince my parents to drive me and have been hooked ever since.

And what brought you to the Giants?

During my final year with the Sheffield Tomahawks my coach, Richard Batty, convinced me to carry on playing and join the adult team. I was pretty nervous about moving up but the guys were really supportive and welcoming. We went on to win the Division 2 Championship that year and had a lot of fun along the way.

You’ve been involved for a long time then

What has been your highlight across the years?

The Division 2 Championship in 2012 was probably the most exciting game I’ve played in. We were down by multiple scores in the 3rd quarter when a thunderstorm stopped play for a while. When we came back out we were a different team, everyone was full of energy. We leveled the score and won the game in overtime.

And what do you like about the Giants this year?

The committee and coaches did a great job with recruitment over the off-season so we’ve got a lot of new, young players on the team which brings a good energy to practice and game days.

You also changed positions, and to Quarterback no less! Tell us about that . It certainly hasn’t been easy but I’m enjoying the challenge. I’ve spent years relying on my legs and now I’m having to use my head! I’ve wanted to give QB a good go for years and appreciate the coaches giving me a chance.

Speaking of coaches, how is it working with Jacob Hardy?

Coach Hardy has the patience of a saint! Trying to undo a decade of terrible throwing mechanics isn’t easy but he’s doing a great job. I’ve definitely seen improvements in the way I throw compared to previous years. He brings a lot of knowledge from his playing years so it’s great to tap into that whenever I’m unsure about something.

And how are you finding Coach Lilley and his offensive scheme?

Coach Lilley really knows his football but is kind enough not to overcomplicate things for me! We spent many years playing alongside each other so he knows my strengths and weaknesses and does his best to work around them.

Last week was tough but let’s look ahead. What are your thoughts on the Sandwell game?

Sandwell have some talented players and certainly didn’t make it easy for us last time. We’re going to have to make sure we’re prepared and switched on if we want to beat them this time.

You’re also heavily involved in the Giants Flag program. What’s that like?

The Giants Adult Flag team has been on hiatus for a few years now and I thought it was about time to bring it back. It’s a great alternative for those who are unable to play contact but still love footballwhether that’s because they think they’re too old or broken, or because they’re just looking to get started. We’ve got a great group of core players with more joining all the time so the future is looking bright for the team.

josh allen - Quarterback player info

That’s a whole lot of football. What do you do away from the game?

I don’t really have much of a life outside of the Giants! My girlfriend is also heavily involved with the Giants youth and women’s teams so when we’re both free we’ll just hang out with our dog

So just all football! OK, so tell us something that fans of the Giants would never know about you.

I used to play a lot of Flag Football when I was younger and my body allowed me to play both. I made the Great Britain squad in 2015 and got to play in the European Championships in Spain.

Name: Josh Allen

Position: Quarterback

Number: 32

University/College Team: Sheffield Hallam University Warriors (1 Year)

Years Playing: 15

Giants Playing Debut: 2012 versus DC Presidents

Favourite NFL Team: Philadelphia Eagle