As Taylor prepares for his first season as head coach of the Oklahoma State wrestling program, he brings with him a wealth of experience and a unique perspective
His success as an Olympic gold medalist and his recent return to competition give him credibility in the eyes of his athletes, who can look to him as both a mentor and a role model.
Taylor’s philosophy on recruitment—recognizing it as a two-way street and not taking things personally—will be key to his success as a coach. He understands that building a successful program requires adaptability, resilience, and a clear vision for the future.
At Oklahoma State, Taylor has the opportunity to continue the school’s rich wrestling tradition while also putting his own stamp on the program.
In the highly competitive world of college wrestling, David Taylor’s leadership and approach to recruitment will undoubtedly shape the future of Oklahoma State’s wrestling program. As he balances his coaching duties with his own competitive ambitions, Taylor’s journey promises to be one worth watching.
His ability to navigate the complexities of recruitment, combined with his personal philosophy of resilience, positions him as a formidable force in collegiate wrestling.
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Table of Contents
David Taylor on Collegiate Wrestling Recruitment
Balancing Ethics and Competition
David Taylor, Olympic gold medalist and newly appointed head coach of the Oklahoma State wrestling program, has entered the realm of college coaching with a unique perspective.1
As he transitions from athlete to mentor, he has voiced his opinions on a hot topic in collegiate wrestling: the recruitment of already-committed wrestlers by rival schools. This practice, while controversial, reflects the evolving landscape of college sports recruitment.
Taylor’s stance is both practical and philosophical, emphasizing the importance of not taking these situations personally, even as he acknowledges the complex and competitive nature of modern recruitment.
In a candid conversation with Flo Wrestling, Taylor shared insights into his approach to this challenge, drawing on both his experiences as a world-class athlete and his new role as a coach. This article delves into Taylor’s views on recruitment, his reflections on his Olympic journey, and his aspirations for Oklahoma State’s wrestling program.
The Challenges of College Recruitment: “The Wild West”
In discussing recruitment, David Taylor likened the current state of affairs to the “wild wild west.” This comparison speaks to the chaotic, unregulated nature of college recruiting, where programs compete fiercely for top talent.
With the NCAA rules allowing certain levels of flexibility, schools often find themselves navigating murky waters when it comes to respecting other programs’ commitments.
Taylor highlighted how recruiting has evolved over the years, describing it as both a challenge and an opportunity. “I think that recruiting is, you know, a little bit of the wild wild west. I think that it is evolving, it’s changing,” Taylor noted. His words suggest that while the environment is competitive, it’s also something coaches need to adapt to if they want to succeed.
At Oklahoma State, Taylor inherited a roster and a recruiting class that was largely shaped before his arrival. Yet, the school remains a top destination for elite wrestlers.
Taylor acknowledged that Oklahoma State’s reputation and prestige make it an attractive choice for athletes, even those who may have initially committed elsewhere. His approach to recruitment reflects this understanding, as he explained, “People are excited about Oklahoma State, you know, they want to come here.”
A Two-Way Street: Understanding the Complexity of Recruitment
One of the key themes Taylor emphasized is that recruitment is a “two-way street.”
This means that while other schools might recruit athletes who have already committed to Oklahoma State, the reverse is also true—athletes from other programs may express interest in joining his team. Taylor believes it’s important not to close the door on these opportunities.
“So, we didn’t get a chance to recruit those kids on the front end,” Taylor said, referring to athletes who had already committed elsewhere before he took over at Oklahoma State. “And I think it’s definitely a two-way street, and we’re certainly not going to turn down kids that want to come and be a part of our program.”
This statement underscores Taylor’s pragmatic approach to the issue. He recognizes that recruitment in today’s college sports landscape is dynamic, with athletes re-evaluating their options based on coaching changes, program success, and other factors.
His willingness to welcome athletes interested in Oklahoma State shows that he values the flexibility needed to stay competitive while maintaining a commitment to the school’s tradition of excellence.
A Personal Philosophy: “Don’t Take It Personally”
Perhaps the most insightful part of Taylor’s reflections came when he shared advice he once received from Cael Sanderson, head coach of Penn State’s wrestling program and one of the most successful figures in collegiate wrestling.
According to Taylor, Sanderson advised him not to take things personally when it comes to recruitment. This advice has resonated with Taylor, who now applies it in his coaching philosophy.
“One thing that I kind of took from one time that I was talking to Cael, and he just said one of the things that you got to do is not take things personally,” Taylor shared. This sentiment highlights the importance of maintaining a level-headed approach in the face of a highly competitive and emotionally charged process.
For Taylor, this mindset is crucial. College coaches often invest significant time and effort into recruiting athletes, only to see them change their minds and commit elsewhere. This can lead to frustration, but Taylor’s ability to separate personal feelings from professional decisions allows him to navigate these challenges with composure.
David Taylor’s Olympic Trials: The Journey to Paris 2024
While Taylor is now fully focused on his role as Oklahoma State’s head coach, his competitive career has been nothing short of remarkable.2
Taylor represented the U.S. at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where he won gold in freestyle wrestling. However, his journey to the Paris 2024 Olympics did not go as planned.
In 2024, Taylor competed in the U.S. Olympic Trials with hopes of making the team for the Paris Games. Despite his efforts, he was defeated by Aaron Brooks in the trials, ending his dream of returning to the Olympics.
This loss marked a turning point in Taylor’s career, as he announced his retirement from professional wrestling shortly after the trials.
Reflecting on this moment, Taylor has spoken openly about the difficulty of transitioning from athlete to coach. His loss to Brooks, a younger and rising star, was a humbling experience that ultimately led him to embrace his new role at Oklahoma State.
— David Taylor (@magicman_osu) September 16, 2024
Retirement and Return: The Unexpected Comeback
In an unexpected turn of events, Taylor announced his return to the professional wrestling circuit just months after his retirement.
In September 2024, he competed in the World Wrestling Team Trials, where he emerged victorious, securing a spot on the U.S. team.
His decision to return to competition surprised many, but it also demonstrated Taylor’s enduring passion for the sport.
Balancing his role as a coach with his return to the mat has been a challenge, but Taylor has embraced it wholeheartedly. His commitment to excellence, both as an athlete and as a coach, is a testament to his drive and determination.
David Taylor Takes the Helm of Oklahoma State Wrestling Program
David Taylor, a two-time world champion and Olympic gold medalist, has stepped into a new chapter in his wrestling career by accepting the head coach position at the Oklahoma State Wrestling Program.3
His appointment comes at a pivotal moment, just a week after missing out on a spot in the U.S. Olympic Team.
Despite this personal setback, Taylor has embraced the new challenge with enthusiasm, seeing it as a significant opportunity to lead and elevate one of the most storied programs in collegiate wrestling.
“It’s an honor to be in this position, and I’m extremely grateful,” Taylor shared during his introductory press conference. “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.”
A New Chapter: Transitioning from Competitor to Coach
David Taylor’s journey from a world-class wrestler to a head coach marks a pivotal transition in his life. Known as “The Magic Man” in wrestling circles, Taylor has long been recognized for his technical prowess, relentless work ethic, and ability to dominate his opponents.
However, moving from competitor to coach presents its own unique set of challenges and rewards.
For Taylor, this role means shifting his focus from his own accomplishments to the development and success of the athletes he will now mentor.
“I’ve spent most of my life competing at the highest level. Now, I get to share what I’ve learned and help shape the next generation of wrestlers,” Taylor stated. “It’s a different mindset, but one I’m ready for.”
Embracing Oklahoma State’s Storied Tradition
The Oklahoma State Wrestling Program boasts one of the most prestigious histories in the NCAA. With 34 team national championships, the program is the most successful in collegiate wrestling history.
Taylor acknowledged the significance of taking the reins of such a legendary program, expressing his excitement to carry forward its legacy.
“Oklahoma State has an incredible tradition. To be able to represent the orange and black, and to lead a program with such a rich history, is both an honor and a responsibility,” Taylor said. “I’m excited to be part of this next chapter and help continue the success that Oklahoma State wrestling is known for.”
Taylor inherits a program that has produced numerous Olympic champions, All-Americans, and NCAA titleholders. This legacy of excellence is something that Taylor is keenly aware of, and he aims to maintain the high standards set by his predecessors.
David Taylor: Nurturing the Next Generation of Champions
David Taylor’s experience as both a world-class athlete and a student of the sport uniquely positions him to guide the next generation of Oklahoma State wrestlers.
As a former NCAA champion at Penn State and an Olympic gold medalist, Taylor knows firsthand what it takes to compete at the highest level. His experience on the international stage gives him a valuable perspective that he can now impart to his athletes.
“I’ve been fortunate to compete with the best in the world and learn from some incredible coaches. Now, I want to pass that knowledge on to the athletes here at Oklahoma State,” Taylor said. “My goal is to help each wrestler reach their full potential, both on and off the mat.”
Taylor’s coaching philosophy centers on personal growth and development. He believes in tailoring his approach to meet the unique needs of each athlete, recognizing that success in wrestling requires more than just physical skill.
It also demands mental toughness, resilience, and the ability to overcome adversity—qualities that Taylor has embodied throughout his own career.
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Fostering a Team-First Mentality
As a leader, Taylor understands the importance of building a strong team dynamic. One of his primary goals as head coach is to foster a culture of camaraderie and support within the Oklahoma State wrestling program.
He believes that success is a collective effort and that a team’s strength lies in its unity.
“Wrestling is often seen as an individual sport, but I believe that the team environment plays a huge role in an athlete’s success,” Taylor said. “I want to create a culture where everyone pushes each other to be better, where we celebrate each other’s successes and learn from our challenges.”
Taylor plans to implement team-building exercises and encourage open communication among the wrestlers. His hope is to create an environment where athletes feel empowered to support one another, both in training and competition.
Excitement for the NCAA Season Ahead
Looking ahead to the upcoming NCAA season, David Taylor is optimistic about the prospects for Oklahoma State.
While he acknowledges that there is work to be done, he is confident in the talent and potential of the current roster. Taylor’s focus is on helping each athlete develop their skills and reach new heights.
“We have a great group of guys here, and I’m excited to see what they can accomplish this season,” Taylor said. “There’s a lot of potential on this team, and I’m looking forward to helping them reach their goals.”
Taylor also expressed his excitement about competing in the NCAA tournament, where Oklahoma State has traditionally been a dominant force. His goal is to guide the team to a national championship, adding another title to the program’s illustrious history.
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