He succeeded Brian McEniff as Donegal manager in 1994 and lasted until 1997, thus preceding Declan Bonner's first spell in charge.
[3] In between he managed Donegal to an Ulster Senior Football Championship victory over reigning All-Ireland champions Down in 1995, a game which took place one week after the first league final loss.
[3] McGowan announced his departure as Donegal manager in 1997, The Irish Times reporting: "His statement was equivocal — saying that he would not oppose anyone who wanted to take over the position - but he admits it amounts to a resignation", though McGowan told the newspaper: "I'd have taken it on if no-one else was willing… I don't have a divine right to this job".
[3] Among the players he introduced during his time as manager were Damian Diver, Peter McGinley, James Ruane and Brian Roper.
[3] As vice-chairman of the county board, he was part of the selection committee tasked with choosing a new senior football manager in 2008.