While growing up in Palmetto, Florida, Jack Allison knew from a young age that he wanted to play football at the collegiate level. While attending Palmetto High School, Allison became a prominent name within the state of Florida, being selected for the Under Armour All-American game, as well as being a semifinalist for the Elite11 quarterback competition in Los Angeles, California. It was through not only these honors, but also completing upwards of 62% of his passes while throwing only five interceptions during his senior year, that Allison earned the position of the eighth best pro-style QB in the 2016 NCAA recruiting class. Allison’s naturally gifted athletic ability at the high school level put him above quarterbacks such as future WVU teammate Austin Kendall, former Notre Dame quarterback Ian Book, and former Oregon quarterback Justin Herbert. Allison’s continual dedication to the sport soon paid off, as the four star recruit earned a full scholarship to the University of Miami. After about a year at Miami and receiving a redshirt, Allison transferred to West Virginia University, where he appeared as the starter for the Mountaineers in the 2018 Camping World Bowl against Syracuse, throwing for 277 yards in the process.

Time soon passed and Allison was back in the transfer portal, but this time he had decided to transfer to a small town in West Virginia. That small town is what many of us fellow Hilltoppers call home: West Liberty University. Perhaps the most exciting part about Allison enrolling at the Hilltop is that he not only joins a tight knit community, but also has a chance to provide an incredibly special season for the Hilltoppers. It is no secret that the COVID-19 pandemic has provided an unprecedented halt in sporting activities nationwide, however as Division II conferences begin to resume, specifically the Mountain East Conference, the Hilltoppers and Allison look forward to making a deep run in this year’s postseason.
When asked about why he chose the Hilltop, Allison said, “I chose West Liberty because of the opportunity here. We have a lot of talent all over the field. The coaches have been real with me from the jump on what the expectations are for their quarterback.” Allison continued about his excitement, “I cannot even put into words how excited I am for next year. It is going to be a lot of fun, and I cannot wait to ball again.”

Going from the University of Miami, to West Virginia University, and now West Liberty University has undoubtedly put Allison through a lot of change throughout the past few years. When asked about the biggest adjustment he has had to make, Allison said that, “the biggest adjustment has to be the weather, but after my first winter here, I have grown to like the cold months.” Allison also emphasized that moving to West Virginia has exposed him to the state’s unique culture, stating that, “when it comes to the culture in West Virginia, I love it. The blue collar attitude is something I can relate with. We work hard for what we want here in WV, as nothing given to us is free.”

Practices have understandably been difficult regarding the times the world is currently in. When asked about how practices have differed, Allison said, “practices have been limited. We have to wear masks while practicing and lifting. Our coaches expect us to show up and work, forget about everything that is going on throughout the country, and focus on our craft.” In regards to the team’s performance during this time, “I thought we had a great few months of practice and preparation, and I am sure it will carry over into the spring season.
Finally, when asked about what he is looking forward to the most this upcoming season, Allison said, “I am looking forward to competing with everyone and going out and winning some games. It has been too long since we have been able to strap up and play so we could not be more excited.” As a new team leader, Allison understands expectations need to be established. Regarding this, Allison emphasized, “my expectations as a team leader is the continual growth as a unit. We have a great group of guys on this team, and we are looking forward to a successful season in the spring and fall.”

With the spring season beginning in just over a month, WLU and Allison look to make noise throughout the Mountain East Conference. However this season plays out, the Hilltoppers have a brilliant quarterback at the helm, one that is respectful, makes his teammates around him better, and is a model to those wanting to follow in his footsteps.