Vine reaping the fruits of all his labor

Measuring Zach Vine by his wrestling accomplishments, while impressive, would not reflect his overall impact on Centennial's program.

Vine, a senior, will compete in the Class 3A state wrestling tournament as both an individual and with the Cougars. He has played a key role in the team's journey to St. Paul's Xcel Energy Center.

"He is perhaps the best leader and overall team captain I've ever had," Cougars coach John Bergeland wrote in an e-mail.

Vine wrote an entire workout plan for teammates last spring, consisting of four six-week cycles of exercises to build core strength, explosiveness and balance -- hallmarks of a successful wrestler.

He spent extra time in the weight room to teach young wrestlers the proper way to lift weights. Vine also picks up teammates on days when the Cougars practice before school or on non-school days.

Vine will compete at 215 pounds after wrestling as a heavyweight the past two state tournaments. He finished sixth last season.

He built a 35-5 record this season and was ranked fifth at 215 pounds in the final ranking published by The Guillotine wrestling publication.

Q Centennial missed going to state for the third consecutive time last season, so what does it mean to you to have your team back in the tournament?

A I think those of us who were around last season took from it that if you don't put everything we have into it, it won't happen for us. We have to work hard every day to realize our goals. All 14 guys have to come in working hard everyday.

Q Talk about the challenge of wrestling No. 2 seed and third-ranked St. Michael-Albertville in the quarterfinals.

A I've talked to my guys about not having any fear. We can feel confident. There might be teams we can't beat but we have built strong connections on this team. If we can come out and wrestle tough for each other, then what it says on the scoreboard isn't everything.

Q You qualified to wrestle at state as an individual by taking second at sections. Did the loss that prevented you from being a section champion in any way help get you refocused for state?

Q Coach admires you willingness to set high goals for yourself and the team. Has that always been part of what drives you as a wrestler?

A I like to set high goals and work hard to achieve them. But in the long run, it doesn't matter whether or not you're on the podium if you put your whole heart and soul into it. That's what I encourage in my guys.

Q Coach talked about the workout program you installed. Has that made you hated or a hero among teammates?

A [Laughs] That's always been the challenge, kicking their butts but still being their friend. The guys that have bought in tell me they got a lot from it. In the long run, I think they do respect the fact that I stay on them. It's like I always tell them, I'm your biggest critic and your biggest fan.