MGCCC’s Rowland named All-American

PERKINSTON – Mississippi Gulf Coast kicker Joshua Rowland has been named to the NJCAA Second Team All-American squad.

"It's incredible. I give honor and glory to God because without Him I wouldn't be there, and all my coaches and teammates encouraging me," Rowland said. "Coming into this season, I had no idea I would achieve this much. "

Rowland made 16-of-19 field goals this season for the Bulldogs, and all 44 point-after attempts for 92 points.

"He did a tremendous job for us this year," Gulf Coast coach Chad Huff said. "He was very consistent all year long and contributed to a lot of our wins. A big part of our success was due to his kicking.

"I'm looking forward to great things in the future from Josh. He's a tremendous student and a tremendous player. He was very clutch in a lot of situations."

Rowland is a 5-foot-10, 175 freshman from Madison. He was previous named to the All-Region 23 and All-MACJC South Division squads. He kicked three field goals or more in three games this season, with a season-long of 42 yards against Jones.

Rowland teamed with long snapper Austin McIntosh and his holder, punter Tyler Flathau.

"They've been great," Rowland said. "Austin was a great snapper, and Tyler had never held before. The first time ever holding, he did great. We've been great friends since we were 11 years old. We were like three best friends."

He was a second-team MHSAA Class 6A All-American and was part of three state soccer championship teams at Madison Central.