Mamaroneck's Parkinson and Jackson-Allen strive for big leagues

Alex Parkinson and Marquez Jackson-Allen have set astounding records for Mamaroneck High School’s football team and are set to play at Division I schools.

“I feel like I kind of raised them,” says head coach Anthony Vitti. “I’ve had them in sixth and seventh grade so I’ve seen them grow up. It’s kind of a culmination of a lot that they’ve worked for; it’s been great.”

Marquez Jackson-Allen recently broke his own and Mamaroneck’s rushing record of 299-yards when he rushed another 305 yards with 19 carries in their 34-7 victory against Suffern.

The 5’8 running back has played football for Mamaroneck High School since he was a freshman and signed onto varsity as a sophomore. Jackson-Allen also runs track in the winter months, which helps in his speed and agility.

“It’s an Amazing experience, I almost didn´t come to Mamaroneck as a freshman but it´s been the best decision of my life. I´m very happy that I made it¨ Jackson-Allen says.

Jackson-Allen is being looked at by Sacred Heart University, University of New Hampshire, and Savannah State University, among others. However, he is aiming for Rutgers University or University of New Hampshire as his top tier schools.

He’s made major headlines and advises future athletes to keep going to practices and give it their all. “Everyday is a chance to make your self better,” he says.

Coming off Mamaroneck 6-1 record, Alex Parkinson has been no stranger to college scouts, either. With offers from Navy, Army, Cornell, Syracuse, University of Pittsburg, University of Connecticut, Princeton, Rhode Island, Yale, and Rutgers, he has a tough decision ahead deciding where to commit.

Last season the 6’5 Wide Receiver and Captain had to sit out most of Mamaroneck’s games after injuring his foot. “It was tough while I was injured, watching the team,” he says. “I just worked as hard I could during the off-season to get back into shape.”

“It´s been a great experience playing for MHS,” said Parkinson. Parkinson’s older brother graduated in 2012 and signed to play football at Towson University. “It’s been great to have him as an influence,” Alex added.

He is very excited about playing college football and is looking forward to winning this year’s section championship.

Vitti wants people to know of their success: “Both Alex and Kezzie are a great group of kids. They work real hard and their success is something that you’ll enjoy as well. They are high energy, high fiber, and dedicated kids. The sky is the limit with these two.”

With Mamaroneck’s win against Suffern on October 24th, The Tigers matched up against long-time rivals Scarsdale, in the Class AA quarterfinals, on Saturday, October 25th.

Marquez led the team to another victory, carrying the ball for 43 yards in a 45-20 win over Scarsdale.

The Tigers are seeded at number 3A and will play John Jay-East Fishkill on Friday, October 31st in the class AA semifinals.

By: Meral Kathwari and Adriana Alonso