Zachary Richards '26 Recruiting Profile

Hello Coaches, I am Zachary Richards, a National Prep and state wrestling finalist and a dual enrolled junior who will graduate in 2026. I formerly attended DeMatha Catholic High School for two years before withdrawing to pursue additional academic opportunities. I began wrestling in the fifth grade and quickly learned that wrestling teaches leadership skills, personal discipline, and tenacity. These qualities would be tested in my time at Dematha. At first, my teammates did not share my determination or my belief that we could place at the state championship or qualify for National Preps. As a team captain, I knew that wanting to succeed was not enough. I developed a training plan that would require more intense practice sessions and year round early morning training. 

Motivating my teammates proved to be quite a challenge. There were times when I was the only athlete at the workout. I was often told that the school would not allow a lone student to use the gymnasium for practice. When my coach noticed my consistency, he asked the school for additional support. Over time, other members of the team joined the workouts. Not only did we place at the state tournament, but several members of the team (including myself) qualified for National Preps. In my senior year, it is my goal to become the state champion in my weight class. My focus as a student, my skill as a wrestler, and my consistency as a student-leader will enhance my goal to wrestle at the collegiate level and to ultimately earn the NCAA Championship title.

Here is a link to my YouTube Channel for more wrestling videos: https://www.youtube.com/@ZachWrestlesMD/videos