Senior Linebacker Josh Allen Attends NCAA Elite Student-Athlete Symposium

There are a lot of words that could be used to describe senior linebacker, Josh Allen – big, strong and dominating – just to name a few. But there’s one more that can be added to that list, leader.
 
In the midst of preparing for his last season as a Wildcat, Allen was given the opportunity to travel to Indianapolis for the NCAA Elite Athlete Symposium. The program gathers a select group of around 20 student-athletes in Indianapolis during NFL Combine weekend for an educational opportunity for players “deemed capable of competing in professional sports to learn realistic expectations of life as a professional athlete.”
 
“When I first heard about it, I thought I was just going to go to Indianapolis to hang out and be with other athletes,” Allen said. “But once I got there I realized that it was more of an educational opportunity, so I made sure to take notes and I learned so much.”
 
During the symposium, potential 2019 NFL Draft prospects were taught effective ways to handle their path to the draft. There were several speakers who shared insight with the athletes on a variety of topics including agents, social media, financial awareness, and much more. 
 
“I was just so blessed and honored to be a part of that,” Allen said. “It was cool to be in a room with all of the players that I’ve heard about as standout talent and to be acknowledged as one of those guys.”
 
It wasn’t just Allen’s athletic ability that rewarded him elite status. While at Kentucky, he has proven to be a leader both on and off the field. More often than not, you can catch him around the facilities getting in extra practice, watching film, and giving his absolute best efforts while in pads. Not only does he do these things regularly, but he also encourages his younger teammates to follow his example.
 
Allen recently had a son and he credits that with a lot of his growth and maturity.
 
“Having my son has been the best thing that has happened to me,” he explained. “He pushes me to be a better man which has translated to me being a better overall leader.”
 
Allen gained a wealth of information at the symposium and he is anxious to share it with his teammates.
 
“I really tried to soak in everything they were saying and I want to share it with guys like Derrick Baity and others who also have potential to be great leaders on this team,” Allen said.
 
Going into the 2018 season, Allen not only plans on being a leader, but an educator. He understands that he has to make a conscious efforts to become a better leader every day by doing things that set him apart from others. Not only does he have to continue being a playmaker, but he also has to set the example for his teammates.
 
“The Wildcats are ready to take off this season and we are working hard to make the Big Blue Nation proud.” Allen said.
 
Under the leadership of a big, strong, and dominating guy like Josh Allen, there is no doubt that this team will be able to do just that.