Senior Casey Cowan was presented with his appointment to the United States Naval Academy in front of family, friends, teachers and coaches in Kinkaid’s Ogilvie Lobby on Friday afternoon, April 4th.
While at the Naval Academy, Cowan will also be a member of their Varsity Wrestling team. Casey will be coached by newly appointed head coach, Joel Sharratt, who was formerly an assistant coach for Navy, a 1996 Olympic Trials bronze medalist and most recently the head coach for the Air Force Academy.
The process to be considered for an appointment to the Naval Academy is quite extensive. A candidate must first obtain a nomination before they can even apply to the Academy. U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas’ 18th congressional district provided the nomination for Casey and although the congresswoman was unable to attend the acceptance ceremony in person, she extended her congratulations and admiration over the phone and PA system to Casey and his family.
Casey had a number of people speak of his great character, work ethic, dedication and commitment to excellence. Those who spoke on behalf of Casey included Athletic Director Bob Beeman, his wrestling coaches Bobby Eggleston and Grant Johnson, Commander Rosalind Brooks, and Mr. John Kendall, the United States Naval Academy Blue and Gold Officer who presented Casey with his Appointment.
Also on hand to watch the ceremony was Kinkaid alum, LT Charles Escher, class of ’98, who graduated from the Naval Academy in ‘02. Escher was in town to receive the Distinguished Alumnus Award.
(L to R: Mr. John Kendall, LT Charlie Escher, Casey Cowan, Commander Rosalind Brooks)
While thanking all of the influential people in his life, Cowan was articulate, composed and he exhibited character traits our school, community and country can be truly proud.
Congratulations Casey!