John Smith on Oklahoma State hiring David Taylor: 'It's in good hands'

Legendary Oklahoma State head coach John Smith stepped away from the sport after the season but David Taylor gave him a lot of confidence this week.

While it seemed like the wrestling program would opt for associate head coach Coleman Scott to fill Smith’s shoes, AD Chad Weiberg and a search firm went all out for Taylor. The Olympic Gold Medalist and Penn State legend took over this week.

After Smith witnessed Taylor’s press conference and the aura he brought, he’s ready to watch the new era.

“It’s not weird, it’s exciting,” Smith said of the hire. “It’s what you hope for. These guys are good, they got a plan. They’re good. Gonna be a fun journey watching them, while I’m retired. Just impressive. You know, you heard coach DT, he’s sincere, knows how to win, knows how to deliver. We got a good coach.”

Taylor announced brother-in-law and former Penn State assistant Jimmy Kennedy would join him as associate head coach. He also added Iowa legend and Olympic Bronze Medalist Thomas Gilman, who trained at the Nittany Lion Wrestling Club the last two cycles.

“I’m sure I’ll, whatever i can do, these guys gotta get on their feet and take it over,” Smith said. “Been a challenge the last couple of weeks … Listen, their message was strong. Really strong. I think we all, after listening to the press conference (thought), this is in good hands. For me, coaching 33 years, that’s all you want. I want him to be a better coach than I was. 

“I think Chad Weiberg is committed like no AD I’ve ever had, honestly. He wants to win. He wants to create the best scenario for Oklahoma state wrestling. Takes pride in what the program has done, took the responsibility to go through the process to find the best coach for Oklahoma State. All you can do is be pleased with that. That’s what should happen. You know after 33 years you haven’t hired a coach, that’s what should happen.”

As far as how Taylor makes the transition, it’s similar to Smith. The latter went straight from his storied wrestling career to the Oklahoma State bench as his first job.

“I’m sure he’s gonna go through some times when he feels like an administration rather than a coach. That’s required. There’s a lot of things that when you’re wrestling and trying to be the best in the world, there’s not a lot of administrative things you’re doing other than taking care of your health and eating well. 

“You’re gonna go from that to 40 athletes that are calling for your help … just listening to him talk, he gets it. He knows the challenge ahead. He’s not afraid of it. Said some things that were powerful. And so, I look forward to sitting back and watching and enjoying Oklahoma State wrestling.”