The University of North Carolina-Greensboro (UNCG) athletics department recently announced its latest class of inductees into the Athletics Hall of Fame. Among the esteemed honorees is Joe Lowe, a 2007 graduate and a standout wrestling student-athlete who made an indelible mark on the Spartans’ wrestling program.
Joe Lowe is from Florida and began his wrestling journey at Lakeland HS. As a high school senior, Joe became a state champion in the 160 pound weight class for Lakeland HS, a feat that set the stage for his impressive collegiate career. Upon joining UNCG, Joe quickly established himself as a formidable force on the mat, wrestling and starting all four years for the Spartans. His dedication and skill were evident from the outset, and he soon became a cornerstone of the team’s success.
During his time at UNCG, Joe achieved remarkable accomplishments, including winning the Southern Conference (SoCon) Championship three times at 174 lbs. His dominance in the conference earned him three SoCon All-Conference honors, further solidifying his legacy as one of the program’s greats. His contributions were pivotal in the 2006 season when the Spartans achieved their best-ever finish at the NCAA Championships, tying for 31st place.
Joe’s legacy in wrestling is now extending to the next generation. While still a student-athlete at UNCG, Joe became a father to his son, Elijah. Elijah recently followed in his father’s footsteps, graduating from Lake Gibson High School after capturing the 2A 120-pound state title. This fall, Elijah embarked on his collegiate wrestling journey, attending the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga, where he will compete in the same SoCon Conference his father once dominated.
Joe’s younger son Isaac Lowe currently attends Lake Gibson HS and will try to become a state champion for the Braves just like his big brother Elijah. Isaac is ranked #4 at 132 pounds in the 2A preseason state rankings by TheFloridaWretlingRoom.com. Under the watchful eye of his dad and the coaching of Hall of Famer Daniel Walker, Isaac will look to climb higher in the state rankings once the season starts.
Joe informed me that he has already prepared his acceptance speech. He leaned heavily on his faith and Philippians 4:13 which says “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”.
Joe is very excited that his family will be in attendance to watch him get inducted. He credits his wife Rachel with much of his success, stating that he could not have done it without her. Joe and Rachel are still happily married and raising a beautiful family. They’ve been blessed with four beautiful children, 2 boys and 2 girls.
The UNCG athletics department will officially induct Joe Lowe into the Hall of Fame on October 5, 2024, during a brunch ceremony held in the Cone Ballroom on the UNCG campus. This honor reflects not only Joe’s individual achievements but also his enduring impact on the UNCG wrestling program and the broader Spartan athletic community.
As Joe Lowe takes his place among the legends of UNCG athletics, his journey serves as an inspiration to future generations of wrestlers. His induction is a testament to his dedication, passion, and the lasting legacy he has left on and off the mat—a legacy now continued by his son, Elijah.
Photo Credit: Joe Lowe