Zac Cowan has demonstrated consistent dedication and skill throughout his wrestling career, achieving notable success in both high school and collegiate competitions.
This article delves into his journey, highlighting key moments and accomplishments across different stages of his career.
High School Career
As a 2014 graduate of The Kinkaid School in Houston, Texas, Cowan earned four wrestling letters. He distinguished himself as a two-time All-American, a three-time All-State (Texas) selection, and a four-time all-conference honoree.
Collegiate Career
Early Years
- 2014-15 (Fr.): Cowan posted a 6-6 record in his rookie season, competing in four tournaments.
- 2015-16 (So.): Wrestling at 149 pounds, he achieved a 12-9 record with two dual victories. He won his first four matches at the Michigan State Open (Fr/So Division) and finished second after losing to teammate Corey Wilding.
- 2016-17 (Jr.): Cowan bumped up to the 157-pound weight class, recording a 13-9 record with a 3-1 dual mark. He secured dual victories over Anthony Snyder, Tommy Grifa, and Matt Raines.
Recent Achievements
Cowan's recent seasons have been marked by significant achievements and consistent performance.
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- 2021-22: Named to SoCon Honor Roll. Claimed second place at the NUWAY College Combat Open with four wins - defeated John Ebaugh, Nolan Allen, Craig Sampson, and Dalton Schams. Earned a pair of wins at the Greyhound Open.
- 2022-23: Named to the SoCon All-Freshman Team, recognized on the SoCon Academic All-Conference Team, and a SoCon Honor Roll recipient. Cowan wrestled a career high 38 times at 149, racking up 29 victories. He totaled a team-best 10 tech falls, while ranking second on the squad in major decision victories with five. He tallied his first win of the season with a 19-2 tech fall victory against Corbin Saul of Davis & Elkins at the Bob Del Rosa Invitational on Nov. 13. Cowan topped Ben Bohr of Lindenwood (MD, 16-5) in Bellarmine’s first dual of the season. He earned a pair of wins over James Latona of Navy (MD, 17-6 + Dec, 5-0) and Cade Siebrecht of Iowa (Dec, 7-2) at the Soldier Salute Tournament on Dec. 30. Cowan went 6-0 in the NWCA National Duals Jan.
- 2023-24: He was an NWCA Scholar All-American and a CSC Academic All-District Team selection. He was also selected for the SoCon Academic All-Conference Team and honored with the SoCon Commissioner's Medal and SoCon Honor Roll. Cowan went 32-13 on the season, marking a new career-high in wins and turned in a 13-5 record in duals. He posted a 3-5 record in SoCon duals and led the team with 16 falls. Ranked second on the team in total wins and fourth in dual wins, his 32 wins also ranks fifth in program history for most wins in single season. Cowan represented the Knights in all but one dual at the 149 lb.
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NCWA National Championships
The Apprentice School wrestling squad participated in the NCWA National Championships. Apprentice boasted 17 entries in the men's division, the most of any team, excluding conference rival Liberty University with 19.
Cowan competed at 149, and Duke faced Jay Masterson of Texas Tech in the round of 64.
Notable Performances
Cowan's career includes notable matches and victories that highlight his skill and determination.
- At 149, #4 Kyle Parco earned near fall points early on in the third period to secure a 21-4 tech. fall against Zac Cowan.
- Zack Ryder notched a :41 pin in the round of 128 over Zac Cowan from Kentucky.
Personal Information
Zac Cowan is the son of Jennifer and David and brother to Kylie. He is a native of Richmond, Ky.
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Recognition
Cowan has consistently been recognized for his achievements both on and off the mat.
He was named to the Commandant’s List three times, including the fall of his junior year and has earned several academic and athletic honors throughout his career.
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