Zach grew up in Cobden, Victoria before boarding at Melbourne Grammar School on a cricket scholarship. As a junior, Zach played for Cobden Football Club and as a kid supported the Western Bulldogs. After a promising junior cricket career, he decided to focused on his footy and was soon selected into the Vic County team, where he impressed many. Prior to getting drafted, he was noticed for his ball winning ability in the TAC Cup and was a consistent contributor for the Sandringham Dragons.
In 2013, he was drafted to the Essendon Football Club with their second selection (pick number 26) and made his debut in the opening round of the 2014 AFL season again North Melbourne. In just his third season, Zach’s leadership qualities were noticed and he was promoted to the Essendon Leadership Group ahead of the 2016 season. In 2017 Zach was named Vice-Captain of the Bombers and finished the season with his first selection in the All-Australian side and third selection in the 22 Under 22 Team.
