Josh McGowen gave his verbal commitment to Stephen F. Austin earlier today. It’s a dream come true for Josh to have the opportunity to play college football. Not bad for a kid who began his high school career playing football in Europe. See, Josh is a military brat. His father Tommy retired from the Army and settled in North Carolina. Before that, Josh had the opportunity to play football in London, England. “How many kids from the states have a chance to play football in London,” Tommy said. Tommy acknowledged that playing in Europe wasn’t ideal for Josh but it was better than nothing.
I caught up with Josh earlier and asked him about his journey.
Q: What was is like playing football in Europe?
A: Playing in Europe wasn’t the best situation in regards of trying to play any sports! It’s a great experience to play overseas but the level of competition wasn’t as high as playing here state side.
Q: What was your favorite duty station?
A: My favorite duty station was definitely El Paso, Tx at Fort Bliss. I just loved the area and being literally down the street from UTEP was great. It was a major factor in why I liked living there.
Q: How was your visit to SFA?
A: When I visited there the coaches were great! The environment and school area was also a great add on for me.
Q: Why did you choose SFA?
A: Overall the campus and school are great. I already had an idea of the football program. Over time, talking to the coaches, things only got better.
Q: What about academics?
A: Looking into the academic side, that’s what really grabbed me. SFA has the major of my choice and is great with academics!
Q: So what are you going to major in?
A: Kinesiology
Q: What advice would you give a young man/woman that has dreams of playing sports in college?
A: Don’t slack off! You need to start as soon as possible keep fighting hard! It will come soon!
Josh’s senior at McAllen High School was one of the most successful in the school’s history. He finished the season breaking the single season rushing record (1,892 yards), most rushing TDs (23), total TDs (28), most total points (170), single game rushing record (340 yards) and the longest run from scrimmage (99 yards). With over 2,400 all purpose yards Josh definitely made his mark at McAllen. He is ready to start working and is excited about the track season. Josh will be ready to compete in the hurdles this spring.