PEMBROKE — Though his journey has led from Lumberton’s ballfields to the NFL spotlight, Brad Allen has never lost sight of where it all began. A proud Robeson County native and UNC Pembroke alumnus, Allen’s rise from teenage umpire to NFL referee was celebrated with his recent induction into the North Carolina High School Athletic Association Hall of Fame.

“I’m truly honored that people felt I was worthy of being included in this distinguished group,” Allen said. “It’s a tremendous honor for our family. This moment is not just about me — it represents a lot of sacrifice by many people who ensured education-based athletics in North Carolina have good officials.”

Allen’s officiating career began 40 years ago, when a 15-year-old picked up a mask and called balls and strikes in Little League

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