Leonard "Sonny" Allen was a four-year member of the Tennessee Tech football team during the program's hayday of the 1950's.

Allen was a part of Golden Eagle teams that captured Ohio Valley Conference crowns in 1952 and 1953, and played in the Tangerine Bowl on New Years Day, 1953. 

After leaving Tennessee Tech, Allen dedicated his life to the service of others beginning with the years he spent in the United States Marine Corps from 1955 to 1957. In addition to his military service, Sonny was a member of the Lions Club for 45 years and sat on the Putnam County School Board. His service to the community did not go without recognition, as he received the 1965 Jaycee Distinguished Service Award and the 1987 Tennessee Tech Outstanding Service Award.

Allen is also known as a great leader, serving as the Sales Manager for Adams Plastics Inc. – where he worked for 45 years – and on the Bank of Putnam County Board of Directors. His business career earned him the 1986-1987 Tennessee Tech Outstanding Business Leadership Award, and he has also been honored with The Sonny Allen Leadership Award, which is given to Golden Eagle football players.