Oklahoma State University Athletics
Smith Honored as 2003 NWCA Head Coach of Year
May 20, 2003 | Cowboy Wrestling
“It is a privilege to bestow this honor to Coach Smith for the achievements his Oklahoma State Cowboys attained this season,” NWCA President Jack Maughan commented. “The Cowboys success this season has been a direct result of the commitment and dedication that Coach Smith brings to his profession.”
After guiding OSU to an undefeated season at 17-0 and the 2003 Big 12 Conference crown, Smith led the Cowboys to the school's 31st national title at the NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships in Kansas City, Mo.
The Cowboys ran through the season, winning the Reno Tournament of Champions, NWCA/Cliff Keen National Duals and the Big 12 Tournament.
At the NCAA Championships, the Cowboys won in convincing fashion with 143 team points, the most ever scored by an OSU team in history. They broke the previous record of 117. The squad clinched the title during the consolation semifinals with four of its five wrestlers winning.
Smith coached two of his student-athletes to individual victories at the championships, repeat winner Johnny Thompson and Jake Rosholt. Overall, Smith has mentored 12 national champions and 28 All-Americans.
This marks the second time Smith has received the honor. He also won it in 1994 when he coached the Cowboys to the NCAA Championship.
The NWCA Coach of Year is voted upon by the NWCA Board of Directors. Coaches from all divisions are eligible to receive this honor.
Smith will be honored at the NWCA Convention in New York City on Sept. 11 and at the 2004 NCAA Championships in St. Louis, Mo.
