Chad Weiberg reflects on the impact John Smith had on him as his final boss, from admiring Smith's talent as a junior high boy to working alongside him. Smith's legendary career as a wrestler and coach, with numerous championships and significant influence on athletes' lives, is lauded by Weiberg.

By the Numbers
  • John Smith is OSU's all-time wins leader with 152.
  • Smith won five NCAA titles as head coach and 490 duals, the program's best.
Yes, But

Weiberg's emotional tribute to Smith showcases a one-sided admiration and respect, without exploring any potential challenges or criticisms.

State of Play
  • John Smith recently retired after a successful coaching career at OSU.
  • Chad Weiberg took over as the athletic director in 2021, succeeding Mike Holder.
What's Next

Smith's retirement marks a transition period for OSU wrestling, with Weiberg stepping into a significant leadership role following Smith's departure.

Bottom Line

John Smith's legacy as a coach and mentor transcends wrestling, impacting countless athletes and leaving a profound influence on Chad Weiberg and the OSU wrestling community.