Behind the mask with China Spring quarterback Major Bowden

Being the starting quarterback at China Spring isn’t for the faint of heart, especially when one of the greatest QB’s in program history is your head coach. Major Bowden has embraced his role and currently has the Cougars (10-0, 5-0) ranked fifth overall in the class 4A DII rankings.

At 5-foot-9, 175 pounds, Bowden has solidified himself as a dynamic dual-threat quarterback, using pinpoint accuracy to deliver passes and his quickness to keep defenders on their heels.

The Lamar commit has thrown for 1,031 yards and 21TD, while rushing for 1,036 yards and 13TD this season. Bowden knows that he’s had some big shoes to fill, but to him it’s an honor.

“It's a huge honor to be able to play for a school like China Spring and have my name written on the record books along with the great quarterbacks that came before me,” said Bowden. “This opportunity is very special to me. I'm always proud to wear columbia blue and white every week because I know who wore it before me.”

Bowden knows that the success the Cougars have had this season wouldn’t be possible with the players around him. China Spring has an explosive offense, but their defense is dominant and keeps opposing offenses off the field.

He feels like the group has completely bought in and that they have grown a lot closer since last season.

“Two of the main things people first notice about our football team is our explosive offense and elite defense. Personally, I'd say our team camaraderie and our ability to be coachable are the key differences between this year's team and last year's team,” said Bowden. “The brotherhood and maturity that our team possesses has helped all year and is one of a kind.”

Coach Brian Bell has the Cougars firing on all cylinders as they enter the playoffs. Bowden gives all the credit in the world to Coach Bell for not only helping him become a better leader, but for helping prepare him to play football collegiately.

“I've loved having Coach Bell as my coach for the past three years. He's always full of energy and has a positive mindset through everything. He makes practices enjoyable as well as games,” said Bowden. “His knowledge of the game has helped me develop not only as a quarterback, but as a player in general. He's prepared me to play at the next level. I'm extremely thankful for all he has done for me.”

Being the son of a coach has also helped Bowden prepare for this moment. His dad Brad is a member of the China Spring staff and he’s played a significant role in making Bowden not only a great athlete, but a great person as well.

“The biggest impact that I've experienced in life is my dad. As a coach and a father, he has taught me to be a better man on and off the field,” said Bowden. “He's taught me a variety of lessons and has given me great advice that I couldn't have learned without him.”

Most young athletes are inspired by those who have come before them, or those who play the game at the highest level. When you watch Bowden carve up a defense, it’s not surprising that his favorite athlete is Christian McCaffery.

“I've always enjoyed watching Christian McCaffrey and how he plays,” said Bowden. “He's not the biggest running back in the NFL, but he works hard. His drive and mindset is what makes him successful, and it has inspired me.”

When he’s not giving opposing defense’s nightmares, Bowden is finding other ways to scratch his competitive itch. He also likes to relax and spend quality time with those close to him.

“Outside of sports, I enjoy doing activities with friends and family,” said Bowden. I really enjoy fishing, hunting, frisbee golf, spike ball, and ping pong.”

Bowden and #5 China Spring will face Madisonville at Merrill Green Stadium in Bryan on Friday at 7:00pm in bi-district play.