In 1989–90, Allison was hired by the Virginia Lancers of the ECHL, finishing with a record of 36–18–6, good for 3rd in the league, before losing in the first round of the playoffs. In 1990–91, Allison moved to the Albany Choppers of the IHL, where the club had a 22–30–3 record before suspending operations. Allison would then finish off the 90–91 hockey season coaching the Richmond Renegades of the ECHL, where they finished with a 29–29–6 record, then lost in the first round of the playoffs. Allison returned as coach of the Renegades in 1991–92, leading the club to a 30–27–7 record, before falling in the 2nd round of the playoffs.