Douglas was born in 1985, son of Frank and Christy Downing in Martinsville Indiana.  In Mooresville Indiana he began swim lessons at the age of five. There he learned the basics of swimming. Upon moving to Greencastle Indiana Doug joined the South Putnam Jr/Sr High school team. There he swam for six years and led the team as a captain for two years. In high school Doug helped the Jr.  high school swim team with leadership as a role model and as well as demonstrations, and stroke technique. In 2007, Doug joined ACAC as head coach, centering workouts around technique, building stamina and endurance, having fun, and focusing on individual development.  Now an avid swimmer and runner he continues training on his own in preparation for future triathlons and the lifelong dream of completing an Iron man.