SPRINGFIELD — Zebrandon Gant has many accolades as a wrestler. He won a state championship, finished the season undefeated and now he can add collegiate wrestler to his resume.
On April 17, Gant topped off his distinguished career at Effingham County by signing a national letter of intent to attend Newberry College in South Carolina.
Gant, who won the Class AAAAAA title in the 195-pound weight class, believes he is fully prepared to take on his new role: college student-athlete.
"I’m ready to experience it," he said. "I’m ready to go. Now it’s time to go on to bigger things.
"Hopefully, I can stay focused and do the same thing there.”
Gant caught the attention of Newberry after a former wrestler took his name to the coaching staff. He entertained interest from Campbellsville, Brewton-Parker and several others.
A three-sport athlete for the Rebels, Gant could have played college football but couldn’t turn down an opportunity to stay on the mat.
“I had offers from other sports but I felt like wrestling was the best sport to pursue,” he said. “One of my friends last year signed with Newberry. They were looking for a 184-pounder and they looked at me.”
Newberry College is known for its challenging academic course work. That, coupled with the opportunity to major in psychology, are two more reasons for Gant to become part of the Wolves' athletic program.
“I look forward to traveling to other schools and wrestling there, and bonding with my teammates," Gant said.
And although he’s considering a career as a therapist upon graduating, Gant said he would consider becoming a wrestling coach if he opportunity arises.
“I can’t say no,” he said. “If it leads me down that path, I will.”
When asked what he will remember most about his Rebels career, Gant said, “The team bonding, spending time with my teammates and my coaches. I appreciate everything they’ve done for me and all the time they put in.”