The #1 Sophomore In New York: Rowan Byrne

Rowan Byrne is a 4 Star recruit who plays Offensive Tackle at Iona Prep High School. Byrne is ranked as the 138th best recruit in the class of 2025 and is ranked as a top 15 Offensive Tackle in the class as well. In addition, Byrne is listed as the #1 recruit in the state of New York. He holds offers from schools such as Pitt, Syracuse, and Minnesota.

Who are some role models in your life?

Both of my parents are role models to me, they do everything they can for me.

What artists do you listen to pregame, to get you hyped up?

I like to listen to Dr. Dre or Clipse pregame, they always get me ready.

What are the strengths of your game?

My biggest strengths are my combination of elite athleticism and strength in a big frame. With my versatility I can work in any scheme or at any position on the line at a very high level.

What is your favorite memory of your career?

My favorite memory of my career is probably beating Don Bosco. We also don’t play on Friday often so that was a really fun day. After this season my new favorite memory will be winning a state championship.

Who is the best player you have ever played with or played against in your career?

The best guy I’ve played with is Jorge Ruiz. He brings maximum effort and intensity everyday in practice and while he was an amazing player, he made those around him great as well.

What is some advice you would give to an aspiring D1 athlete?

The advice I would give to an aspiring D1 athlete is to just work hard and enjoy the process. Lift, work on your technique, and become more athletic. Most importantly just love the process. If you love the process, good things are bound to happen.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?

If I could travel anywhere in the world, it would be to either Alaska or Montana.

How old were you when you fell in love with the game?

I fell in love with football a couple months before 7th grade, I played for years but I didn’t love it. However, one day it just clicked and I have loved football ever since.

If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?

If I could meet any athlete it would probably be Travis Kelce, he is my favorite NFL player.

What is your favorite sports moment, as a fan?

My favorite sports moment as a fan was probably the one handed catch against Dallas by OBJ, as I am a Giants fan.