Jared Thames and Marquee Allison have had the opportunity to experience UT Permian Basin Football quite like no others.  Part of the inaugural Falcon Football team on the field, both now use their experiences at UTPB as they enter their second year on the coaching staff.  Their unique insight to the University and the program helps give them an edge that the Falcons hope translates into success. 

"To have your former player's start their coaching careers with you is a tremendous honor," said Head Coach Justin Carrigan.

Thames was the first player to commit to play football at UTPB.  He had decided to transfer from Tarleton State after his sophomore season and was informed by then Tarleton coach Chris Mineo, and now Falcon associate head coach and co-defensive coordinator, that Carrigan took the job at the newly founded UTPB program.  Thames took a visit to campus and after hearing Carrigan's vision, immediately told coach that he wanted to join him in Odessa.

"Jared was our first commitment back in 2015," said Carrigan. "He was a starter for us at Tarleton and when I accepted the job at UTPB, Jared wanted to join me right away. He was driven to be the best student and football player he could be. He brought a great work ethic every day and that's what he brings out as a tight end coach."

Few have gotten the opportunity stick around as long as Thames has.  Being here since 2015 has allowed Thames to see the direction of the program and see Carrigan's vision come to life.

"I knew how Coach Carrigan interacted with the players and I knew I could trust him," said Thames. "I knew the type of coach he was and I wanted to play for him. Seeing his vision come to life, being on the coaching staff, and knowing that next week we will be moving into the D. Kirk Edwards Family Human Performance Center is just a testament to not only to the vision of Carrigan and the coaching staff, but also to everyone at UTPB. It is really easy to sell UTPB just from my time here."

On the field Allison was a swiss army knife, doing anything asked of him in his time as a Falcon. He played multiple positions and both sides of the ball, something rarely seen in today's football. Playing all over the place not only helped Allison during his playing days, but he has taken those experiences with him in his role as a coach.

"Marquee started at five different positions on both sides of the ball," said Carrigan. "He was always willing to help the team in any way possible. He has brought that same teamwork to our staff. We are blessed to have him coaching our running backs."

Allison spent a lot of extra time becoming a student of the game.  He credits the coaching staff in addition to all his hard work to being on track for a successful coaching career.

"When I had free time, I would be in the coach's office breaking down film," said Allison. "Learning from the coaching staff that has been here for the past four years has been extremely helpful not only has a player, but now as a coach as well."

UTPB has become a family affair for Allison whose sister, Netanya, has followed in his footsteps and now plays volleyball at UTPB.  In her freshman season, the Falcons won 20 games for the first time in over 10 years and won a Lone Star Conference playoff for the first time.

"I love being able to see my little sister play," said Allison. "I'm excited to watch her grow as a person here at UTPB."

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