LV’S Allen signs with Trine
LAKEVILLE – Laville’s Collin Allen has signed to continue his academic and athletic career at Trine University.
“It was one of the first colleges I visited,” recalled Allen when asked about his selection. “It really stuck with me. I really liked the coaches there and the atmosphere of the college. It is a smaller college. I know where everything is and that really appealed to me.”
Allen is a three-sport athlete at Laville (football, basketball, track and field), but will focus on football at the college level.
“They have a nice stadium and the fans really come out and support the football team,” added Allen. “That atmosphere really drew me to play football there. The coach that has been recruiting me, Coach Riley, has been really helpful in helping me to make this decision. I will be playing defense. I’ll be playing middle linebacker and probably some special teams.”
He was an offensive and defensive lineman for the Lancer football team and part of a senior class that went 34-9 over its four years. Only the graduating class of 2017 had more football wins in a fouryear span (35). Included during that time have been the school’s first-ever Hoosier North Athletic Conference football championship (2022) and an Indiana High School Athletic Association Class 2A sectional title (2021).
“(This year’s) North Judson game is my most memorable moment in football,” said Allen. “It was a close game, went into overtime and that last play, just pushing the pile. The whole team was on the field, the coaches, the community, it was a really memorable moment.
“Being a Lancer and playing athletics has meant a lot to me. It’s been me and all my buddies since first grade. We had a really successful season here, going undefeated, winning conference and won sectional in 2021. It’s meant a lot to me and helped me make this decision to continue my football career.
“Been really proud to be a Lancer because of the guys I’ve played with. I’m playing with my friends in every sport, and part of it has been the community. They come in such large numbers to support our teams. They have supported our fundraisers and helped get us new jerseys, all the equipment we needed.”
The soft-spoken, hard working Allen also appreciated playing with his younger brother Cody.
“I got the chance to play with my brother for two years,” he said. “I enjoyed that a lot. I will always remember when me and my friends and Cody and his friends would get together for a birthday party or whatever and play football at our house. We had probably 20 people over. I think that helped us gain a connection. That connection helped us have a successful time in football.”
Allen plans to major in business management. Trine is a Division III school that participates in the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA). The MIAA includes Adrian College, Albion College, Alma College, Calvin University, Hope College, Kalamazoo College, Olive College, St. Mary’s College and Trine. The Thunder finished 7-3 overall a year ago.