By Greg Gielczyk
LocalSportsJournal.com

HART — Hart senior Zane Thomas finished second at the regional and qualified for the state finals for the second year in a row, but despite not taking an individual title. 

Thomas, who wrestles at 175 pounds, is one of two seniors who hit the 100-win milestone for their careers this year. Bryce Jorissen is the other, and the Pirates look to that duo for leadership as well as victories.

He had a stellar 41-9 going into the team state finals, including a runner-up finish in the individual regional.

Four years ago, as a freshman, Thomas kept quiet and did more listening than talking when he started with the Pirates.

But, he’s a big voice in the wrestling room now and was elected one of the team’s captains.

“In a close dual, he gets the guys going,” said Hart coach Elijah Flores. “They really listen to him. With just his physical presence, he’s a natural leader. He works really hard and it really shows. He’s a very likeable person. It’s hard not to like him. You can get behind him really easily. Zane is the type of guy you want as a teammate.”

Early on, Flores was impressed with Thomas’ wrestling IQ and it’s only grown as he’s grown physically.

“It’s just him being aware of the situations he’s in,” Flores added. “Wrestling is tough because you get to start out wrestling as freshmen against 17- and 18-year olds. You have to develop the confidence and maturity to reach that senior year. Zane has been stepping up his entire career. It was great to see him punch his ticket to state last year. This year, I think it was with more of a purpose.”

His teammates believed in him, but more importantly he believed in himself.

After winning the district title, Thomas fell just short of a regional championship.

But his second-place finish gives him a shot at the state title. His teammates know he’ll leave it all on the mat.

“As much as he’s a vocal leader, his actions speak for themselves,” Flores said. “He leads by showing his effort. The kids follow him. It’s been a pleasure to coach Zane. Watching his confidence and maturity and seeing his natural leadership skills take over has been incredible.”

According to Flores, Thomas is a tough, gritty wrestler. He doesn’t have much flash on the mat, instead preferring to wear down his opponent.

Not the most active on his feet nor the most explosive, Thomas uses his strength to keep up constant pressure, whether on his feet or if he’s on top, according to Flores.

“He’s not going to blow you away with one or two moves, but just grinds it out,” Flores added. “A lot of kids fold. They can’t match the constant pressure he brings.”

It’s his path to victory.

(Feature photo courtesy of photographer Brendan Samuels)