Cowboy Culture: Leighton Allen

Oklahoma State University is a special place.

And the Oklahoma State tennis program is like no other.

Leighton Allen, a sophomore transfer from the University of Texas says that OSU has exceeded his expectations since transferring.

"There is a sense of community. The move here from Austin has been incredible, I've met so many amazing people. The women's head coach Chris Young is amazing and the assistant women's coach Jaime as well. Of course, DT and Dane have been unbelievable, just being with them has been invaluable and is something I'll cherish forever," Allen said.

"I just want to thank them for giving me a chance and giving me an opportunity to show what I'm made of."

Tennis runs in Allen's family. At the age of 10, his mother, Louise, first taught him how to play tennis.

"Ever since I held a racquet in my hand, I knew I wanted to become a really good player and I knew I had a talent for it," Allen said.

Louise played tennis at Trinity University where she was a four-time All-American from 1981-84 and won the 1983 NCAA Doubles Championship. In addition, she reached No. 65 in the WTA rankings and played in all four Grand Slam tournaments, advancing to the third rounds of Wimbledon in singles and the U.S. Open in doubles in 1983.

"My mom coached me when I was younger, she has been amazing. She knows the struggles and difficulties that tennis players face every day. For her to be at my side and to coach me when I was younger has been really beneficial for my tennis," Allen said.

Allen's debut as a Cowboy at the OSU Invitational signaled a successful start going undefeated throughout the three days of play. The sophomore has high hopes for the season.

"My goal is to be within the top 15 and not expect a lot in the beginning of the season since we're all just new and since we're all just playing with each other for the first time. For me, I just want to play my brand of tennis," Allen said.

To Allen, a tennis coach is more than just on the court. Head coach Dustin Taylor's reputation on and off-court impacted his decision to come to OSU.

"The reputation that DT has in the tennis world impacted me. He probably has one of the best reputations in terms of being a tennis coach and being an even better person." Allen said.

"I have full belief that he will make me the best person and tennis player that I can be."

He also welcomes the unknown of a new slate with open arms.

"New coaching staff, new players and new relationships to build with. It's exciting, I'm really looking forward to our future. It's unknown, but that's why it's so exciting. We can experience new things with each other," Allen said.

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