Recent graduate Zach Lee is making history for Swainsboro High School athletics. He signed a letter of intent for Life University in Marietta and is the first wrestler in school history with such an offer. While he is the second Tiger wrestler to compete in the state championship, he is the only one to have competed and placed there three times during his high school career. He earned the state runner-up title in the 144-pound weight class his senior season.
Zach has been wrestling since 8th grade and admits, “I tried out for other teams, but I believe everything happens for a reason.” He became focused on building his skills in a sport that requires athletes to be physically and mentally tough. He took time during his summer breaks to attend camps and train and even attended state duals as a freshman just to watch. That would be the only year he was a spectator and not a participant in state matches.
For Michael Singletary, head wrestling coach, watching Zach become so passionate about wrestling has been exciting. He says, “I’ve watched him grow to love the sport and put in the work both during and outside the season to be successful, which he proved year after year.” Zach’s career at SHS boasts 118 wins and only 23 losses. But, just like the sport, Zach’s success is not just from his physical abilities. Both Singletary and assistant coach Austin Fultz recognized his character early on. Fultz says, “There are few wrestlers that you can just look at and predict a great outcome. Zach was one because he is very well-rounded. He has the intellect, the heart, and the mind to achieve great things.”
Before heading to college this fall, Zach will travel to Fargo, ND, with Team Georgia USA Wrestling in July. He earned this spot by competing in their qualifiers last weekend.
A signing celebration was held in the SHS Media Center, where Zach was joined by his mother Melanie White, brother Bradley White, and Grandmother Sara Overstreet. Also present were coaches Singletary and Fultz, his teammates, teachers, administrators, and counselor.
