2023 Player Spotlight/interview with Ashton Allman from Vinton County

[LICKING COUNTY FAN]

(Ashton has moved from tight end back to the offensive Tackle)

Ashton Allman

Vinton County High School

Tight end, Defensive end, and Offensive tackle (current position)

2024

What was your biggest accomplishment on the field last season?

I think my biggest accomplishment on the field last year was not allowing a single sack the whole season.

I know that when I asked you about your goals during our interview the last time, you said you had come up short on one of them.

What are your goals for this season, and what have you done during the off-season to help you achieve them? My goals this season is to win TVC, win a playoff game, and lastly allow 0 sacks again this year as Offensive Tackle.

Also from the last time we spoke, you said these were some of the schools showing interest in you (Marshall, Toledo, Campbell, Ashland, Western Michigan, Virginia Tech, Air Force, and Penn) Have they or any other school made an offer? Since our last interview?

I’ve been offered by Youngstown State, Campbell, and Glenville State, along with still having interest from schools like Toledo, Marshall, and Virginia Tech.

This is it for you as far as high school football playing days go. Have you approached things any differently than you have in the past?

I think the biggest change in my approach was all mindset. I’ve attacked this year with a whatever-it-takes mindset truly putting blood sweat, and tears into football. While others over the summer were having hangouts and playing around, I was in the gym trying to be the best I can be every day.

What has playing for Coach Carper taught you the most, on or off the field?

He’s really taught me that if you set your mind on a goal and truly want it. If you work hard enough and have the right mindset, then anything is possible.

Which game are you looking forward to the most, along with your reason why?

The game I'm looking forward to is Nelsonville because I want revenge for the past two years. In the past we let it slip from our grasp, and I truly believe that we are fully capable and deserving of the championship.

Out of all the road games that you have played, which stadium has the best atmosphere?

Unioto, because personally, I love when the crowd is in it for the kids and the game. Full support from your school and community makes High School football itself. They have a great atmosphere, so that’s why I’d say Unioto.

If your coach tells you to call the play, which play are you calling and why?

If I got to call a play I’d call a run right in between me and James Swaim (OG). I have full trust in his abilities along with mine to make a gap for our RB to score.

What are your thoughts on 16 teams from each region qualifying for the playoffs?

I support it. It allows more underdog upsets to be made.

Where should the state finals be held?

Honestly, I think Ohio State would be a great place to have the state championship.

If you could pick any stadium, college or pro, to play a game in, where would it be?

I'd probably have to say Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge (LSU) because ever since I was little, I loved the Tigers. It was my Grandpa’s favorite place in the world, so if I could play there just once, for his sake. It would be amazing!

Now that you have a year under your belt at tight end, what is the best and worst part of playing that position?

The best part about being a TE was being recognized a bit more by the public, but the worst part to me was only catching a few passes here and there instead of every play. I felt that if it wasn’t me catching the ball in the play then I felt like I wasn’t helping the team. This is why I moved to offensive tackle, because if it isn’t for the line, then there is no play. Being Tackle makes me feel powerful and needed as a vital role every play. Which to me is all I could dream of.

Where is the best spot in town to grab a bite?

Honestly, any food place is good in town, but my favorite is Mama Renie’s because you can sit down in a place filled with Vinton County history. Although I have to say good luck finding a seat after game day!

What is your favorite genre of music?

I listen to more Rap than anything, but my favorite genre is Rock. Bands like Metallica, Kiss, Red Planet, A Day to Remember, Etc. They really get me hyped on game day, and whenever I need a little extra energy in my day I listen to Rock and I’m all set!

What is your favorite class or subject?

I always loved history and historic things like WW1 and the revolution. All the moments that lead to where we are today really interest me.