ABOUT

Meet The Author Donnell Rawls

Donnell Rawls was born on Fort Bragg on March 31, 1971. He grew up in Fayetteville, NC, in a middle-class neighborhood, Englewood. Donnell, the youngest of David and Mamie Lee Rawls. He was conscious of God’s existence around age five and began deeply questioning himself. Those types of questions would torment him for most of his life. Through trials, tribulations, failures, and losses, Donnell became E. E. Smith Sr, the high school 1st state wrestling champion, Winston-Salem state 1st Division 2 National Champion, and Appalachian State 1st Division 1 All-American. In 2004, he was the first wrestler inducted into Clarence ” Bighouse” Gaines’ athletic hall of fame. Donnell Rawls was the last CIAA wrestler ever to wrestle a match, and that match became Winston-Salem State’s first and only National Champion. He accomplished these achievements through the hardships and his belief in God, which fueled his inspiring read or a memoir.

Donnell Rawls’ career was determined by victory in the career, persistence, and unshakeable belief, which directed him through life. He came from a life in Fayetteville, where he encountered hardship that developed his character and conduct. Experiencing sports at an early age, Donnell found wrestling to be a substantial medium through which he could positively direct his energy and frustrations. His devotion to the sport made him train hard, sometimes giving up his free time to perfect his skills. Every win on the mat reaffirmed his belief in hard work and determination, while losses instilled humility and the value of a strong mind. Through coaching mentorship and the encouragement of his family, he developed a competitive mindset that extended beyond the sport of wrestling, motivating others in his community to chase their dreams without relent. Rawls’ life story shows how determination and faith can turn disadvantage into victory. As such, he is a source of inspiration to anyone who knows his story.