Mooresville chemistry teacher to referee wrestling at Olympics - 13 WTHR Indianapolis

Pinning down Olympic dreams is an inexact science - even for a chemistry teacher.

Mooresville High School's Zach Errett has been grappling with his love of wrestling since he was wearing the smallest of tights.

As a youngster he realized there wouldn't be any Olympic medals in his future, so he decided that he could get to the games another way.

"I started refereeing when I was in middle school and started working my way up," said Errett. "So to kind of be able to make it there and be a part of the experience and to be around wrestling and be involved with some of the best wrestlers in the world, it's really just a tremendous honor to be a part of that as once a former athlete in that sport."

From middle school to junior high, through high school and college, Errett hones his officiating skills. For the last ten years he's been a chemistry teacher and the head wrestling coach at Mooresville High School. At the same time he's also become one of the best wrestling referees in the world.

This summer his Olympic plan paid off. Errett is one of only three officials from the United States who will work the summer games in London.

"To be selected was a great honor just because there have been so many great referees that have worked the Olympics along with some great referees that have been really close and not able to make the Olympics," Errett said.

The wrestling team at Mooresville never doubted their coach.

Says senior Brent McCreary, "I think it's a really good opportunity for him I know he's worked almost all of his life to get there. I've actually reffed with him a few times at some local tournaments and he really takes pride in his work and it's a good opportunity for him."

Errett is officiating Greco Roman, men's and women's free style. Those are events that are only beginning when classes start back in Mooresville. That means Errett will miss some school time while he is in London.

But teachable moments? He'll come home with plenty of those.

"I think teaching wise and just general wise I think the one thing I get is I get a chance to bring back and talk to the kids about what it's lie being in other places and other countries. I've been to a number of places and every time I come back I'm always glad I live in the United States. "