RICHMOND, Va. – Virginia Union University standout Curtis Allen has been named the RVA Sports Male Athlete of the Year, as announced by the Richmond Region Tourism through the annual RVA Sports Awards program.

The RVA Sports Awards celebrate athletic excellence across the Richmond region, honoring standout high school, collegiate, and professional athletes while recognizing the impact of sports on the local community. Allen's selection underscores both his elite on-field performance during the 2025 college football season and his leadership off the field.

A Historic 2025 Season
Allen delivered one of the most dynamic seasons in Virginia Union football history in 2025, emerging as one of the top performers in the CIAA and the nation. His accomplishments included:

• Became the first player from an HBCU to be named winner of the Harlon Hill Trophy, awarded annually to the nation's best NCAA Division II football player.
• Awarded the Deacon Jones Trophy for being the top HBCU football player.
• Played in this season's American Bowl and Legacy Bowl
• CIAA Player of the Year
• Led the nation in rushing
• Rushed for school-record 369 yards in a single game
• Rushed for a school-record 30 touchdowns in 2025
• Recorded four games in which he rushed for more than 200 yards
• Lead the Panthers in total offensive production
• Ranking among the CIAA leaders in touchdowns and all-purpose yards
• Recording multiple 100-yard performances during the regular season
• Delivering game-winning plays in key conference matchups
• Earned All-CIAA honors
• Guiding Virginia Union to a championship-contending season

Allen's explosive playmaking ability, consistency in high-pressure situations, and command of the offense were instrumental in Virginia Union's success throughout the year.

Beyond the statistics, Allen's presence in the locker room and the Richmond community helped define the Panthers' culture in 2025. He served as a team leader, mentoring younger players while representing the university with distinction at public and community events.

Coach's Perspective
"Curtis Allen winning RVA Sports Male Athlete of the Year is a testament to who he is not just the plays he makes, but the character he carries," said VUU Head Football Coach Dr. Alvin Parker. "He has earned all of the awards he has received this year because of his work ethic, humility, and heart. Thank you to the Richmond Board of Tourism for this honor to Curtis."

Allen becomes one of the select Virginia Union student-athletes to receive regional recognition through the RVA Sports Awards platform, further elevating the profile of Panther Athletics across the Commonwealth.
With this latest accolade, Curtis Allen caps a remarkable 2025 campaign, solidifying his legacy as one of the premier athletes in Richmond-area collegiate sports.