 In high school, he rushed for 1,114 yards and 12 touchdowns as a senior, and excelled on both sides of the ball.While at Syracuse, Kowalewski moved from defensive end to linebacker prior to the 2002 Spring practice, and to tight end before the beginning of the 2002 season.He totaled 33 receptions for 441 yards and three touchdowns during his collegiate career, while also achieving success academically.