RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- A talented, trailblazing Richmond college athlete is making history as the first-ever player from a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) to be named the best that Division II college football has to offer. Curtis Allen, a senior running back at Virginia Union Univ ersity (VUU), was named the 2025 recipient of the Harlon Hill Trophy, according to a Dec. 19 press release from the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA). This award is given annually to the most outstanding player in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II football. Allen secured his win by standing out among several other talented finalists during multiple rounds of voting. He was one of only two running backs who made it on ballots nationwide. "Known nationally as 'Mr. 2K' and inside the locker room as 'The Quiet Storm,' Allen led all divisions in rushing yards, rushing touchdowns, rushing yards per game, scoring and total touchdowns," the CIAA said in the release. "He finished the season with 2,386 rushing yards, winning the Division II rushing title by more than 400 yards. His 30 rushing touchdowns and 180 total points were the most at any level of college football." UVA selects its next president despite political firestorm This honor was not only hard-won, but historic. Allen is not only the first-ever student athlete from VUU to receive the Harlon Hill Trophy, but he's also the first-ever student athlete from an HBCU to do so, per the CIAA. "Curtis Allen earned this moment,” said CIAA commissioner Jacqie McWilliams Parker in the release. “He waited his turn, prepared relentlessly, and when the opportunity came, he delivered one of the most dominant seasons Division II football has ever seen. His consistency, humility and competitive fire set him apart, and this honor is a reflection of the standard he carried every time he stepped on the field.” The CIAA stressed that Allen is not only an immensely gifted player, but a person worth knowing -- someone who is "soft spoken, faith-driven [and] motivated by family." "Throughout the season, Allen consistently credited his mother, his teammates and his belief in preparation and purpose for his success," the CIAA said in the release. "His approach made him not just a dominant player, but a respected leader within the locker room and across the conference." When he took his shot at greatness this 2025 season, Allen "changed perception, expanded opportunity and reshaped what excellence looks like at the highest levels of Division II football." "Curtis Allen did not just win the Harlon Hill Trophy," the CIAA said. "He carved his name into the history of the game and opened the door for generations to follow." ...read more read less