Craig Zeerip
Craig Zeerip laid the foundation for one of Michigan’s most accomplished wrestling families. A former wrestler and letter winner at Ohio State University, Craig returned to West Michigan where he became the head wrestling coach at Hesperia High School before later leading the program at Fremont High School. Beyond coaching, he made the decision to step back into an assistant coaching role to spend more time developing his three sons. Through his leadership, work ethic, and commitment to both athletics and academics, Craig helped shape a family legacy that has become synonymous with excellence in Michigan wrestling.
Justin Zeerip
As the oldest of the Zeerip brothers, Justin established himself as one of the greatest high school wrestlers in Michigan history. A 2007 graduate of Hesperia High School, he compiled a perfect 260-0 varsity record, won four consecutive MHSAA individual state championships in four different weight classes, and set a national record with 203 career pins. Equally impressive in the classroom, Justin graduated as valedictorian with a 4.0 GPA before continuing his wrestling career at the University of Michigan, where he earned more than 100 collegiate victories and Academic All-Big Ten honors. Today, he continues to give back to the sport as a wrestling coach and educator, inspiring the next generation of student-athletes.
Brandon Zeerip
Brandon continued the Zeerip tradition with an exceptional athletic and academic career of his own. A 2009 Hesperia graduate, he posted a remarkable 251-7 high school wrestling record while capturing two MHSAA individual state championships and finishing as a state runner-up. He also excelled on the football field, setting Hesperia’s single-season rushing record with 1,345 yards. Brandon wrestled collegiately at both the University of Michigan and Eastern Michigan University, where he continued to compete at the Division I level while earning multiple academic honors. His success demonstrated the family’s commitment to balancing elite athletic performance with academic excellence.
Collin Zeerip
The youngest of the three brothers, Collin added another chapter to the family’s remarkable wrestling story. A 2010 graduate of Hesperia High School, he amassed a 238-13 career record and captured three individual MHSAA state championships in three different weight classes. Like his brothers, Collin graduated as valedictorian and excelled in multiple sports while maintaining outstanding academic achievement. After beginning his collegiate career at the University of Michigan, he transferred to Eastern Michigan University, where he earned tournament championships and continued his success both on the mat and in the classroom. Following his competitive career, Collin has remained deeply involved in wrestling as a coach, helping mentor young athletes and carry on the Zeerip family’s tradition of excellence.
The Zeerip Family Legacy
Together, Craig, Justin, Brandon, and Collin represent one of the most accomplished wrestling families in Michigan history. The three brothers combined for an astonishing 749 high school victories and nine individual MHSAA state championships, while each also graduated as valedictorian and competed at the NCAA Division I level. Their accomplishments reflect more than athletic success—they embody discipline, academic excellence, humility, and a lifelong commitment to serving others through coaching and mentorship. The Zeerip family’s impact extends well beyond championships, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire wrestlers and student-athletes throughout Michigan.