Oklahoma State AD Chad Weiberg opens up on David Taylor hire

Oklahoma State athletic director Chad Weiberg opened up on the hiring of David Taylor as the school’s new wrestling coach.

With John Smith’s retirement, one of the most historic athletic programs in the country opened. Interim head coach Coleman Scott was the anticipated hire by fans and others across social media platforms.

However, Weiberg and brass swung for the fences to grab the 2021 Olympic Gold Medalist and two-time NCAA champion from Penn State.

“With 34 national championships, the Oklahoma State wrestling program is the most successful in the country by any metric, regardless of sport,” Weiberg said, via a release. “We began this search knowing there is no goal that is unattainable for Cowboy Wrestling. 

“No expectations are too high. The ambitions we have for ourselves led us to the hiring of David Taylor, someone of equally high goals and ambitions.”

Taylor broke his silence on social media Monday night, but expanded upon this opportunity Tuesday.

“It’s an honor to be in this position and I’m extremely grateful,” Taylor said. “I’m looking forward to the future of Oklahoma State wrestling. It has an unbelievable tradition and I’m excited to be part of it moving forward. I’ve achieved everything I have wanted in my personal career, and this is no longer about me. I am just thrilled to be in the position to help others achieve their goals, and truly make an impact in the wrestling world and on the lives around me.”

Weiberg acknowledged there are immense expectations for the Oklahoma State wrestling program. Smith exemplified those qualities when he was around the school as a wrestler and coach.

“We are allowed to have very high expectations here because we have elite support and so many great people across multiple generations who care deeply about Cowboy Wrestling and the sport of wrestling,” Weiberg said. “While there are many to thank for their help during this process, I’d like to particularly thank Chad Richison. Without his leadership support of our program, this wouldn’t be possible.

“Like so many others, he cares deeply about the sport of wrestling, wants to see it continue to thrive in the state of Oklahoma at all levels, and shares my belief that a strong Oklahoma State program helps assure that continues to be the case long into the future.”

Taylor is unknown as a coach at the collegiate level, having never held a previous position as a head coach or assistant. But, Weiberg sees the similarities.

“Replacing a legend like John Smith is a daunting task,” Weiberg added. “He has been the face of Oklahoma State wrestling nearly four decades. In many ways, David has had a similar path in becoming our head coach. I know he respects and admires John and is up to meeting the high expectations we all share for this program. I look forward to introducing him to the Cowboy family.”