OGDEN -- While the traditional version of the Heisman Trophy is the pinnacle of college football achievement, the Wendy's High School Heisman Award is a tribute to prep athletes who excel in all sports.
And academics.
And school leadership.
And community service.
Ogden High senior Nikolas Allred learned Saturday he had been named the Utah boys winner of the 2009 Wendy's High School Heisman Award. Sometime during the next couple of weeks, Allred will learn if he is one of 12 national finalists.
"It's pretty neat honor," Allred said on Monday. "I share my athletic success with my teammates. When it comes to academics and service, I give credit to my teammates, as well as my parents and church leaders."
Allred broke a state total offense record in September, compiling 588 total yards in Ogden's 63-42 win over Logan in Region 5 football action. The Tigers were 5-0 at the time, finishing the season with a 6-4 record.
The 6-foot, 180-pound quarterback ended his senior season with 959 rushing yards, 2,583 passing yards and 39 total touchdowns. On defense, he tallied 48 tackles.
During his four years at Ogden, Allred has also participated in basketball, soccer and track and field.
"I've tried to balance it all out," Allred said of his athletics, studies and community service. "I made a decision that education would be important."
Allred, son of Tony and Debbie Allred, said he's interested in the medical field, but might also follow his father and grandfather, both professors at Weber State University.
Dixie High's Shanelle Seegmiller is the Utah girls state winner.
"I'm honored to be one of the state finalists," Allred said. "It would be neat to go back to New York and meet those great college Heisman winners."
In 1997, Ogden High's Blake Moore was named the national boys honoree for the High School Heisman.
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