South Tahoe High senior ready for Simpson University's first full season of football

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Simpson University in Redding, California is set to start its inaugural season for football this fall, and the team will have another South Tahoe High School graduate, Allen Aparicio, on the roster.

Allen will graduate in June, and head to Redding as a defensive back for the Simpson Red Hawks.

The South Tahoe High School (STHS) athletic staff hosted a football signing ceremony for Allen with his teammates watching as he prepares to head to college. He thanked his coaches and teammates for his success on the field, as well as his fellow seniors and the crowds at games.

As with many of the STHS athletes, Allen credits the school's conditioning room with helping him on the field.

Allen said he'll take what he learned on the field at STHS to Simpson - be disciplined, be on time, and show respect, all keys to success.

While STHS did not have the best football seasons, Allen said he posted game highlights on Twitter and got some interest, so he went to camp and saw what he could do.

Allen said "it feels special" to be part of an inaugural football program.

At Simpson, Allen will be studying criminal justice.

"I've always wanted to be a police officer," said Allen.

The South Lake Tahoe native said he plans to play football, study and graduate, and head back to his hometown to join the South Lake Tahoe Police Department.

Allen will join his cousin, 2023 graduate Joel Gomez, at Simpson on the football field. Gomez was at Simpson this year and the team started practicing and playing in two scrimmage games, preparing for the inaugural season.