Geno Allport receives Dick Gallagher Lifetime Service Award from Project Play WNY

Contributed Photo – Geno Allport with former Buffalo Bill Stevie Johnson.

On this National Coaches Day, Project Play WNY has announced that Geno Allport, of Albion Youth Football and Cheerleading, will receive the Dick Gallagher Lifetime Service Award.

The award, which will be presented at an event later this month in conjunction with the Buffalo Bills,  recognizes an individual who has used their platform as a youth sports coach or youth sports organization leader to support, recognize and advocate for youth athletes both on and off the field, for a decade or more.

The award honors the legacy of Dick Gallagher, a tireless youth sports advocate and Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame inductee, who also dedicated his professional life to helping young people struggling with addiction.

Allport, described as the “heart and soul” of Albion Youth Football, has been involved with the club for 25 years.

In addition to his role as president of Albion Youth Football and Cheerleading, he also serves as an executive board member for both the Niagara Orleans Football Association and the Western New York Amateur Football Alliance.

The three people who nominated Allport lauded his steadfast commitment to sportsmanship and fairness and described how he fosters an environment where each child feels valued.

One of his nominees, Robin Silvis, said in part, “Geno has built a legacy defined not just by wins and championships, but by the values that make youth sports meaningful: sportsmanship, fairness, honor, integrity, honesty, respect, determination, enthusiasm, sincerity, and caring.”

“From the beginning, Geno has insisted that the playing field is more than a place for competition, it is a classroom for life. His steadfast commitment to sportsmanship and fairness has shaped Albion Youth Football into an organization where players, coaches, and families know that respect for the game and one another comes first. He has fostered an environment where all children, regardless of ability, are given the chance to learn, grow, and feel valued,” she said.

“Geno Allport’s 25 years of service represent the very best of what youth sports can be. His leadership has left an indelible mark on Albion, NOFA, and the Western New York Amateur Football Alliance. But most importantly, his influence has shaped the lives of generations of young athletes who carry with them the lessons of respect, teamwork, and perseverance that Geno has championed throughout his remarkable career,” she added.

Project Play Western New York is driven and funded by the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation’s Youth Sports & Recreation focus area in partnership with the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo and the Aspen Institute Sports & Society Program. Project Play Western New York envisions a community in which all children have the opportunity to be active through sports. Every child—regardless of location, income or ability—should have access to fun and fulfilling physical activities that build confidence and set them on a path for lifelong success