The Last Is Now the First

‘The Last Is Now the First’ is the inspiring true story of Donnell Rawls, a young man from Fayetteville, North Carolina, who rose from modest beginnings to make history as a wrestling champion at every level. His journey is one of faith, perseverance, and unshakable determination in the face of personal tragedy and constant doubt. From his earliest days, Donnell was told he was too small to succeed in sports. Wrestling changed that. On the mat, he discovered a place where discipline and heart mattered more than size. Guided by family, mentors, and an unyielding belief in God, he transformed losses into lessons and setbacks into motivation. His achievements include becoming the first state champion at E.E. Smith High School, winning a national title at Winston-Salem State, and making history again as Appalachian State’s first NCAA Division I All-American. Yet his story goes beyond victories. It is about the strength of family, the power of friendship, and the lessons learned from both heartbreak and success. Through hard work, resilience, and faith, Donnell proved that being overlooked does not determine one’s future. ‘The Last Is Now the First’ is more than a sports memoir. It is a powerful reflection of character, courage, and the belief that no matter how you start, you can finish as a champion.