Rowland attended La Cueva High School where he played on the boys soccer team.
He left the University of New Mexico as the most decorated soccer player in school history; as a Hermann Trophy finalist, the only two-time All-American in school history, a two-time Academic All-American, ranking 3rd in points, 2nd in goals, 9th in assists with 5 goals and 3 assists in NCAA Tournament play.
During the 2003, 2004 and 2005 collegiate off seasons, Rowland played in the fourth division Premier Development League.
[2] On January 26, 2006, the Real Salt Lake picked Rowland second overall in the 2006 MLS Supplemental Draft.
[3] Rowland lost the 2006 season, then rejoined Real Salt Lake in 2007 only to tear his right ACL before he played a game.