In his final year at Sedbergh he trained and played alongside future rugby union international James Simpson-Daniel.

[6] A review of his performance in the school magazine states: "Ewan Dowes was well to the fore in all departments, carrying the ball powerfully, scrummaging purposefully."

[5] Dowes later decided to focus solely on his rugby league career, but with only limited first team opportunities at the Rhinos, he joined Hull on loan in May 2003,[8] before making the move permanent a month later.

[9] Dowes played for Hull at prop in their 2005 Challenge Cup victory against the Leeds Rhinos, signing a new contract at the end of the season.

[10] Hull also reached the 2006 Super League Grand final to be contested against St. Helens, and Dowes played as a prop in his side's 4-26 loss.