Downing attended Fairfield University, where he was a three-time All-American. In 2005, Downing helped lead the Stags to the Great Western Lacrosse League Championship and the NCAA Men's Lacrosse Championship Tournament. Also in 2006 and 2007, he was selected for the Tewaaraton Trophy Preseason Watchlist, given to the nation's most outstanding NCAA lacrosse player. During his college career Downing produced 141 points, on 101 goals and 40 assists. Downing was clocked shooting the ball 109mph in practice.
↑Philly, R.A. (September 2, 2007). "Titans trade up, take Hall with top pick". The Outsider's Guide to the NLL. Archived from the original on October 7, 2008. Retrieved 2007-11-23.