Oklahoma State University legend John Smith retired on April 11, ending a 33-year run as coach of the Cowboy wrestling program. With this retirement, Smith solidifies his status as the longest-serving wrestling coach in OSU's storied history, standing only behind James Wadley (men's tennis) and Henry Iba (men's basketball) as the university's longest-tenured head coaches across all sports. During his illustrious coaching career, the OSU wrestling program achieved remarkable heights, boasting five NCAA team championships, 33 NCAA individual championships, and a stellar record of 490 dual wins. Smith also guided his athletes to earn 153 All-America honors, secured 23 team conference championships, and claimed 132 individual conference championships. Notably, two Hodge Trophy winners emerged under his watch. His career dual record of 490-73-6 stands at the top in OSU's wrestling history and ranks third overall in Division I wrestling. Smith's coaching success is further evidenced by the unmatched numbers of All-Americans, conference titles, and individual conference champions, setting records not only at OSU but also in NCAA wrestling history. Throughout his tenure, Smith's teams achieved perfection with eight flawless dual season records, alongside an exceptional conference mark of 171-24-5. Additionally, his coaching led to an impressive 21 top-five finishes at the NCAA Championships, further cementing his legacy as one of the sport's all-time greats. “Coach Smith is a hero and truly the greatest of all time," OSU Athletic Director Chad Weiberg said. "John has dedicated his life's work to Oklahoma State University, Cowboy wrestling and the sport.”
