The path from a small-town high school to the grand stage of Division I athletics is paved with dedication, resilience, and undeniable talent. Ashton Rowden, a standout running back for the New Boston Lions in New Boston, Texas, exemplifies this trajectory, rising from the competitive ranks of a AAA high school to earning a coveted scholarship at Texas Tech University. 

In reality AAA high schools around the country produce many D1 athletes in many sports. Rare, in the instance of Ashton Rowden, is a player in the local area making it to a D1 college. Tony Basso, Texarkana Gameday consultant, had this to say when asked about the rarity of the Ashton Rowden situation. “I would estimate that of all the football players in the last ten years, around one percent have had the opportunity to play D1 football.”

To reach D1 in any sport the players must be talented both on and off the field. Many high school athletes wish to play D1, but that it requires a certain kind of mentality. Tony Basso explains, “Playing division 1 football requires an athlete to be accountable, determined, coachable and self-aware, on top of possessing immense talent. High school athletes that reach division 1 level hold these qualities and a parallel mindset.” 

Ashton Rowden’s journey to Division I football is a testament to his talent, work ethic, and unwavering determination. While AAA schools regularly produce D1 athletes, his achievement stands out in his local area, where such opportunities are rare. Reaching this level demands more than just skill—it requires accountability, determination, and a disciplined mindset. Rowden’s success shows what it takes to compete at the highest collegiate level.