Centennial wrestling coach Don St. James said it is easy to pull for student-athletes like senior Chris VerSteeg. Accomplished on the mat and even more so in the classroom, VerSteeg is wrapping up his final season as a Knights grappler.

“He’s one of those kids who took the SAT in the seventh grade and [scored] higher than most kids do as seniors,” said St. James.

And that is no exaggeration. VerSteeg recorded a 1,260 on his first SAT attempt several years ago, when the test still used a two-part format. A National Honors Society member and National Merit semifinalist, VerSteeg will begin college studying Biomedical Engineering during the fall at Georgia Tech.

“Smart kids are always easy to coach,” added St. James.

On the mat, VerSteeg is in the midst of his best season for Centennial. Entering the North Metro Invitational last weekend at Brookwood High School, the 160-pounder sported a 28-7 record with 16 pins. He went undefeated at the State Duals in Macon two weekends ago.

“My senior year I’ve been getting better, progressively,” said VerSteeg. “I’m improving my shot defense. I’m hoping on placing at State. That’s kinda my goal.”

St. James agreed.

“He’s got that potential,” the coach added.