Harry Rowston is a talented midfielder for the GWS Giants in the AFL, known for his relentless work ethic, sharp decision-making, and dynamic on-field presence. Originally from Griffith, New South Wales, Rowston was taken with Pick 16 in the 2022 AFL draft after a dominant junior football campaign.
Diagnosed with Coeliac disease at just six years old, Harry has learned to navigate the demands of professional sport while managing his condition, embracing a strict gluten-free diet to maintain peak performance. His journey serves as an inspiration to young athletes, showing that health challenges can be managed without compromising on success.
Off the field, Rowston is dedicated to promoting awareness about Coeliac disease and advocating for healthier lifestyle choices. Harry shares his insights into competing as a professional athlete and managing a strict gluten free diet.
You've had a great start to your career, is there a particular highlight that stands out for you on your journey thus far?
Without a doubt the highlight of my journey so far was me debut game against west coast in Perth. Easily one of the best days of my life getting to fulfil my childhood dream that day and that moment of running around still feels like a movie.
When were you diagnosed with coeliac disease?
I was diagnosed when I was about 6 or 7. I was always sick as a kid so my parents took me to get tested.
What does your pre-game eating routine look like for a typical game?
Typical im trying to get a lot of carbs in so night before is always just pasta if im at home ill cook different version of pasta but when in the road i keep it simple with bolognese because it can be hard to always make sure the hotels have it sorted. Breakfast earthier just eggs and toast or gluten free weetbix.
Are you the only person at GWS that eats strictly gluten free and how do you best approach team dinners where you may require a different meal to your teammates?
I’m lucky at the giants that I also have nick haynes who follows a gluten free diet which is very handy. When I first got the club it was a bit harder with team diners and what not because not everyone is aware of my diet but once being at the club for a couple of years now I have no problems, everyone knows my diet needs and the club it always so helpful at getting me the right foods and sorting me out.
Have you ever felt any extra stress prior to games knowing the consequences if you accidentally consume gluten? If so, what have you done to manage this.
Luckily i haven’t, for me my diet is my main priority so im very careful with what i eat before games because i know how sick it can make me feel and don’t want that going into games.
How do you best navigate travelling whilst staying true to your gluten free diet requirements?
At times it can be hard, sometimes just being stuck with gluten free bread untill dinner is served. I’m lucky that the Giants are amazing at sorting me out so I have never missed out on meals and always been well looked after.
What is the biggest setback you have had in your sporting journey and what has helped you overcome the challenge?
The biggest set back I have had is the one I’m currently in. Stress fracture and bulge disc in my back. This has been my first injury and quite a lengthy one having not played footy since mid way last year. My family my friends and the club have been so helpful in getting me through this time, having so many amazing being by my side has been a massive help in getting me through this time.
Did you have much awareness about what coeliac disease was when you were told you had the condition?
No none at all obviously being so young I didn’t have much idea about anything. It wasn’t untill I hit my late teens that I really started to understand it all and really start to follow a strict diet and learn what it was doing to my body.
Can you share any specific gluten free meals or snacks that you find particularly beneficial and enjoyable for fuelling your training and games?
For me I’m a massive meat lover and lucky there all gluten free so for my most of my meals contain some sort of meat for protein and lots of veggies. I try to stick to as much whole foods as I can because of them being gluten free and just the way it makes my body feel so good. My breakfast on the go is gluten free weetbix with yogurt and a great snack.
What is the best advice you have received in terms of managing dietary restrictions?
Best advice I’ve been given is ( what u put in your body is what u get out of it ) meaning if you are disciplined with your diet and fuel your body with the right foods you will get the best out of your body and give yourself the best chance at performing to your best ability.