If you are an athlete striving for the next level or someone who generally wants inspiration, Justin Allen offers timeless ideas for you.
“I’d like to share with those struggling that they ain’t gon’ give it to you. I’d like to let others know from experience that no matter how much talent you have it doesn’t mean it’s going to come easy. You gon’ have to work for it and prove yourself over and over to keep it.”
I had the pleasure of interviewing Justin Allen, a former New Mexico State wide receiver, brother of the New England Patriots Dwayne Allen, & recently featured on Netflix’s Last Chance U.
Allen is an inspirational mover in the way he propels people forward.
Authentic. Inspired. Mindful.
3 of the many words that describe Allen & his unshakeable work ethic.
Allen is currently working with the star of Netflix’s Last Chance U, Ronald Ollie, to get him in the best shape of his life in all aspects.
In the interview below you will see how these two met, gain more insight into who Ollie is, and get a glimpse into the mind of a truly inspired being, Justin Allen.
1) As a person who has been on both sides of the football field, what is your favorite aspect of the sport and why?
“My most favorite aspect of the sport is being able to impact lives in a positive matter through the process.”
2) What kept you inspired to continue working in athletics after getting injured at New Mexico State? What was the transition like going from being an athlete to training athletes?
“I went into Depression after my last injury and training became my peace. The transition was smooth because they are similar I just don’t play in the games on Saturday or Sunday.”
3) In what ways has being a trainer taught you about football that you weren’t as aware of when playing?
“It honestly proved what I thought as a player to be true. Some coaches look for players who test out well but overlook the 4.6 guys that have 4.4 football speed. There is a difference.”
4) Is there one specific characteristic you have found that distinguishes the greatest athletes from the “good” athletes?
“Their Mindset.”
5) Speaking of successful people, do you have a role model?…Who?
“My older brother Dwayne Allen.”
And what are some characteristics they have that you work on cultivating?
“Staying true to who I am and not living outside of my means. He harps on doing the right thing at all times and genuinely helping others.”
What is your definition of success?
“Bringing out the best in those around you.”
6) What have you found many athletes struggling with?
“Most athletes struggle with the mental aspects of the game.”
How do you go about turning weaknesses into strengths?
“We build them up mentally to prepare for the worst, so when it comes, they’ve been there.”
7) What is your favorite quote and why?
“’WeALLEN’ Being ALL-EN is a mentality. It’s a journey, a constant quest that we are all on. When you are ALL-EN, it means you are prepared and equipped to be the best version of yourself. In order to be ALL-EN, you must be passionate, relentless, fearless, and resilient.”
8) In what ways has your brother Dwayne Allen, (Tight End for the Patriots), influenced your life?
“He taught me how to stand on my own two feet. He doesn’t make things easy for me.”
9) How did you become acquainted with Ollie?
“He came to get a haircut at my facility from Fade Game and others began to take pictures of him and I asked who he was because I had never saw the show that he starred on (Last Chance U) I later DM him on twitter asking what he was doing in Houston instead of being in school.”
10) What is something you learned about Ollie that others should know?
“He’s well rounded. As we all know he’s a talented football player but he’s just as skilled as a music artist and actor.”
11) What do you love about training Ollie and others?
“I love the energy that Ollie gives off and his willingness to get better. He realized the opportunity he has in front of him.”
12) What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? What about that experience brings you joy?
“I would have to say my greatest accomplishment was creating a brand to positively change others lifestyle…helping others reach their full potential. It’s an unexplainable feeling, I want everyone to be able to experience. Nothing brings more peace or happiness.”
13) If you could give one piece of advice to a struggling athlete or anyone who wants to make progress, what would it be?
“Eliminate all distractions and things that don’t help them progress and grow.”
14) Is there anything you’re looking forward to in the upcoming years? Anything you look forward to most in life?
“I look forward to changing the culture through sports training and mentoring. I believe it’s the best unspoken discipline.”
15) Is there anything else you would like others to know about you? Is there anything else you would like to share?
“I’d like to share with those struggling that they ain’t gon’ give it to you. I’d like to let others know from experience that no matter how much talent you have it doesn’t mean it’s going to come easy. You gon’ have to work for it and prove yourself over and over to keep it.”
As Allen continues to inspire others he is also working on getting physically fit himself. No matter where he ends up he will undoubtedly help illuminate those around him.
I’ll leave you with a quote from Ronald Ollie during the most recent episode of Last Chance U
“It’s just love you know. Everything is love.”
Find Justin Allen on twitter here.
More on his elite worldwide training program, ALL-EN Sports, here.
Allen is also on the selection committee of the nation’s High School All-America Game.
With Ken Thompson 