David Taylor’s emphasis on confidence is not just coach speak—it’s the core of his philosophy. As someone who has faced the world’s best and come out on top, he knows that the mind is the ultimate weapon
In every practice, every dual meet, and every postseason moment, Taylor is teaching his athletes to believe in themselves.
Not blindly, but with a deep understanding that their preparation has earned them the right to win.
That belief is already paying dividends at Oklahoma State—and if Taylor’s trajectory continues, it may soon lead the Cowboys back to the top of the NCAA wrestling world.
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David Taylor: Kevin Ward Rejoins Oklahoma State Wrestling
The Oklahoma State Wrestling program has taken a major step forward by bringing back a familiar face.1
Under the leadership of newly appointed head coach David Taylor, the Cowboys have hired former Army head coach and NCAA Champion Kevin Ward as their new assistant coach.
This strategic move reunites the program with one of its proudest alumni and promises a fresh injection of experience, discipline, and championship pedigree.
A Championship Legacy: Kevin Ward’s OSU Wrestling Roots
Kevin Ward’s wrestling journey began in Stillwater, Oklahoma, where he was a key contributor to one of the most dominant eras in Oklahoma State Wrestling history.
Competing for the Cowboys from 2001 to 2006, Ward helped the program capture four consecutive NCAA team championships. His individual prowess came to light in 2005 when he won the Big 12 title at 157 pounds. He followed that performance with a runner-up finish in 2006, further cementing his place among the program’s greats.
Ward’s tenure at Oklahoma State wasn’t just about victories—it was about learning the Cowboy culture, embracing the grind, and understanding what it takes to be elite. That experience now serves as the bedrock of his coaching philosophy.
Coaching Foundation: From Ouachita Baptist to West Point
After completing his college wrestling career, Ward didn’t waste time stepping into the coaching world.
He helped launch the wrestling program at Ouachita Baptist University, a Division II school in Arkansas, and quickly turned the team into a competitive force. The program’s success laid the foundation for Ward’s reputation as a builder and leader.
His next challenge came at the United States Military Academy. Ward took over the Army Black Knights wrestling team in 2014, and over the next 11 seasons, he guided the program with passion, structure, and consistency.
Under his leadership, the team posted a 59–53 dual record and maintained steady progress in one of the toughest conferences in college wrestling.
Achievements at Army: A Culture of Excellence
Kevin Ward’s tenure at Army was not defined by wins and losses alone. His ability to develop talent and build a strong team culture was evident.
Over the course of 11 seasons, Ward coached 54 NCAA Championship qualifiers, helping elevate the program’s national standing.
His hard work was recognized in 2019 when he was named the EIWA Coach of the Year, a prestigious honor reflecting his impact on and off the mat.
While Army may not have had the recruiting advantages of powerhouse programs, Ward’s ability to develop disciplined, high-performing athletes stood out.
His teams were known for their resilience, toughness, and strategic preparation—traits that align perfectly with the OSU wrestling tradition.
David Taylor’s Vision: Rebuilding with Familiar Faces
David Taylor, a wrestling legend in his own right and Olympic gold medalist, was recently appointed head coach at Oklahoma State with a clear mission: restore the Cowboys to the top of the collegiate wrestling world.2
Part of that vision includes surrounding himself with coaches who understand the program’s values and bring proven leadership to the table.
In his announcement of Kevin Ward’s hiring, Taylor expressed genuine excitement:
“I’m excited to welcome Kevin Ward back to Oklahoma State Wrestling. Kevin was part of four NCAA team titles as a Cowboy wrestler, helped start a successful program from the ground up at Ouachita Baptist, and has been a consistent force at Army for more than a decade. His return to the wrestling room here at OSU is going to help us reach our goals for the highest levels of success on and off the mat.”
And with thanks, we’re done … pic.twitter.com/t0uJ7bT3KY
— David Taylor (@DaveTaylorNews) May 20, 2025
Strategic Fit: What Ward Brings to OSU’s Coaching Staff
Ward’s return to Oklahoma State isn’t just a sentimental move—it’s a strategic one.
His deep roots in the Cowboy culture, coupled with over a decade of head coaching experience, make him uniquely qualified to guide OSU’s next generation of athletes.
He brings:
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Proven ability to develop individual talent, especially in weight classes that have been historically competitive.
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Recruiting expertise, particularly among disciplined student-athletes who thrive in structured environments.
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Experience building programs from the ground up, making him a valuable resource as OSU transitions under a new head coach.
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A mentorship-driven coaching style, aligning with Taylor’s emphasis on character, leadership, and academic success.
Reuniting with Tradition: Cowboy Brotherhood Lives On
For Kevin Ward, returning to Oklahoma State is more than a career move—it’s a homecoming.
His ties to the program go beyond championships. The relationships built with teammates, coaches, and alumni over his five-year career have lasted a lifetime.
Ward’s journey from Cowboy wrestler to college head coach and back again demonstrates the strength of the Cowboy Brotherhood, a legacy that stretches across generations of OSU wrestlers.
This sense of community and loyalty is a hallmark of Oklahoma State Wrestling and is something Taylor is seeking to emphasize in his rebuilding process.
David Taylor: Impact on Recruitment and Development
The hiring of Ward is likely to have a major impact on OSU’s recruiting efforts. As a former NCAA champion and seasoned coach, he brings immediate credibility to the program.3
His presence may open new pipelines of talent, particularly from military academies and developmental programs that value hard work and accountability.
Furthermore, Ward’s experience coaching student-athletes at the United States Military Academy gives him a unique understanding of how to balance athletic and academic excellence.
This dual focus will be crucial as Taylor looks to build a program that thrives both on the mat and in the classroom.
OSU’s Future: A Return to National Dominance?
With the combined leadership of David Taylor and Kevin Ward, Oklahoma State is poised to return to national prominence.
Taylor’s innovative approach to wrestling—blending Olympic-caliber training with collegiate strategy—paired with Ward’s tested leadership could prove to be a game-changing formula.
The Cowboys already have a rich tradition: 34 team national championships, more than any other program in NCAA history. The addition of high-caliber coaching staff is essential to maintaining that legacy while evolving to meet the demands of modern collegiate wrestling.
A Message to the Wrestling Community
The wrestling world is watching closely. With changes sweeping across major programs and a new generation of athletes rising, Oklahoma State’s latest move sends a message: the Cowboys are serious about reclaiming their place at the top.
For young wrestlers considering their next step, Oklahoma State now offers an elite coaching lineup with a clear vision for success. For fans and alumni, the hiring of Kevin Ward brings a renewed sense of hope and pride.
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David Taylor: Champion’s Mindset Transitions to Coaching
David Taylor is no stranger to success on the mat. With an Olympic gold medal, three World Championship titles, and six world medals to his name, Taylor is one of the most decorated American wrestlers of his generation.
But in May 2024, he took on a new challenge—leading one of the most historic programs in collegiate wrestling as the head coach of the Oklahoma State Cowboys.
Since his appointment, Taylor has brought a fresh energy and elite-level insight to the Oklahoma State wrestling room. And according to him, the foundation of success doesn’t begin on the mat—it starts in the mind.
Confidence Is Key: Taylor’s Mental Strategy
In a recent interview with FloWrestling, Taylor shed light on what he believes separates good wrestlers from great ones—confidence.
While physical training is essential, Taylor emphasized the significance of psychological preparation before competing.
“I think it’s a combination of both,” Taylor said, referencing the mental and physical aspects of preparation. “Every step along the way you want to wrestle, but you’re never going to feel your best till the National Tournament.”
He went on to highlight a truth that many high-level athletes understand—there’s rarely a moment where everything feels perfect.
The body might be sore, the mind may be fatigued, and doubts could creep in. But belief in oneself—the confidence that you’ve done enough to win—is what can make the difference.
David Taylor: Clay Shoot
Two weeks ago David Taylor and Still Boys organized 2025 Pokes Wrestling Clay Shoot, moreover they shared some glimpses on his instagram account.
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Building Toward Nationals: A Backward Approach
Taylor revealed a strategic framework for his athletes that involves building the entire season in reverse—starting with the NCAA National Championships and working backward from there.
“When we talk, we lay out a plan for the guys and it’s going backwards from the National Tournament,” he explained.
This type of backward planning ensures that each dual meet, invitational, and practice is designed with the end goal in mind—peaking at nationals.
This approach isn’t entirely new in the world of elite athletics, but Taylor’s commitment to mental and emotional peaking is something he reinforces consistently. It’s not about being dominant in November—it’s about being untouchable in March.
The Power of Belief in Pressure Moments
- Taylor also acknowledged that even at the national tournament, it’s rare to feel 100 percent physically. But it’s in those high-pressure moments where belief becomes an athlete’s strongest weapon.
- “I don’t know that anyone necessarily feels their best at the National Tournament,” he said. “But I think that’s where the belief kind of element comes in—just believing that you’re ready to go.”
- This insight shows how much Taylor values mental preparation. It’s not enough to be in peak shape; athletes must also be in peak mindset. That self-belief can be the edge that turns a close match into a win.
- Taylor’s transition into coaching has already produced results. Under his guidance, the Cowboys finished third at the 2025 NCAA Wrestling Championships—an impressive result that reestablished Oklahoma State as a powerhouse program.
- Two names stood out from OSU’s tournament run—Dean Hamiti at 174 lbs and Wyatt Hendrickson at 285 lbs. Both dominated their respective weight classes, showing the impact of Taylor’s coaching methods.
- Hamiti, a transfer from Wisconsin, embraced Taylor’s vision from the start. Known for his slick offense and relentless pace, Hamiti excelled under a coach who empowered him to trust his instincts and push the pace.
- Hendrickson, a heavyweight known for his athleticism and explosiveness, similarly thrived in an environment that emphasized belief and preparation.
David Taylor: Culture Change in Stillwater
While Oklahoma State has long been considered a blueblood in college wrestling, Taylor brought a cultural shift that reflects modern elite athletics.
His experience as a competitor in the international circuit has helped him instill a professional, focused mindset among the Cowboys.
Gone are the days when a dual meet loss in December would derail the season’s outlook. Under Taylor, every setback is framed as a learning opportunity—a stepping stone toward the bigger picture.
This cultural pivot has made OSU more dangerous in March. Wrestlers are encouraged to keep evolving, keep trusting the plan, and peak when it matters most. That belief system, rooted in Taylor’s own career, is spreading through the program.
Wrestling Beyond the Mat: Leadership and Life Skills
For Taylor, success isn’t limited to wrestling matches. He views his role as a coach more holistically, aiming to shape well-rounded athletes who are prepared for life after wrestling.
Confidence, discipline, and resilience—these are traits Taylor believes are just as critical off the mat as they are on it.
His message to athletes often extends beyond technique and tactics. It’s about being prepared for adversity, taking responsibility for personal growth, and becoming leaders in the community.
His own journey—from a young wrestling prodigy to Olympic gold medalist to head coach—offers the perfect blueprint for those lessons. Taylor’s athletes don’t just see him as a coach—they see him as proof of what’s possible when you combine hard work with unwavering belief.
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