Finding his rhythm on and off the field

How Desmond Bowen is making the most of boarding school, both in class and on the field. 

For Desmond Bowen, boarding school has been about stepping up, facing new challenges and discovering his potential beyond sports and beyond the gates of Brisbane Boys College. 

Originally from Cooktown, Desmond joined the Cape York Leaders Program (CYLP) in Year 9 after hearing about it from family and his basketball coach. “They were talking with the school about setting me up for a scholarship,” he said. That encouragement opened a new educational path, one that he hadn’t considered possible. 

The move from Cooktown to boarding at a big city like Brisbane came with its share of nerves but he quickly adjusted. “I just started talking, getting to know people quickly.” Desmond took on the challenges of socialising in a new environment by involving himself in activities and found his way. “I just started to involve myself.” 

Now in Year 10, he’s thriving in his favourite subject, HPE, and embracing every opportunity to get active. He’s currently balancing basketball and rugby across school and club teams, representing his local team, the West Bulldogs Rugby League Club. 

CYLP has helped make that participation possible by making sure that Desmond is equipped with what he needs, both inside and outside the classroom. Through CYLP, Desmond receives academic and leadership guidance, which has been a great help to his studies. 

Outside of school and back home in community, Desmond’s favourite place is the outdoors. “Camping all over, just going out and playing sports,” he said. “It’s very good to explore places, have fun with your family.” These moments keep him connected to home and grounded in his culture and why he is pursuing a better education. 

His time at boarding school has brought noticeable growth. “People back home see I’m getting taller, more mature… picked up good habits like being more tidy,” he said. These habits, like keeping his space clean and managing responsibilities, are small but important steps toward adulthood. 

To students thinking about CYLP, Desmond doesn’t hesitate. “Step up for the challenge,’ he said “Try it out. You get more support… better education.” Desmond  is keen to fset up a up a future where he’s not left struggling and ensure he Has “a good mindset”. 

As for his plans after high school, Desmond is weighing his options between university, the army or chasing dreams on the court or field. “I’d love to be an NRL player or make it to the NBA… maybe the Broncos or Dallas Mavericks,” he said. 

While playing for the Mavericks may need to wait a few years, CYLP will ensure that Desmond receives a good education and develops leadership skills to take him all the way.

With sport, study and support on his side, Desmond is building a future that’s grounded in effort, shaped by opportunity, and fuelled by ambition.