Oklahoma State just got a new talent transferred from the competition stage when David Taylor became head coach there. Since Taylor joined Oklahoma State, another two-time All-American also joined the Cowboys group in May 2024. Guess who it might be?

Former Air Force Academy wrestler Wyatt Hendrickson confirmed the news about his shift in May 2024 after making a big name in wrestling. After making many records with the Air Force, what led Hendrickson to make this shift now?

The real reason behind Hendrickson’s shift to Oklahoma State

Recently the 1000 All-Time winner has told the reason behind the shift. When he was asked how he was feeling about it, Hendrickson told FloWrestling, “I mean, I just remember being in that arena, and it’s all orange anyway. Like, I guarantee you 80-90% of the fans in that arena are Oklahoma State. So, I mean, I’m kind of used to it. But now I’ll be like, you know, it feels good. And I’ll be wearing the orange thing when I’m out there on the mat.”

Hendrickson will join the Oklahoma State Cowboys for the fifth and final year of his eligibility. His move is inspired by David Taylor, as he has joined as head coach. During a podcast called “The Barn Session,” Hendrickson expressed his feelings by saying, “I said, ‘What a great opportunity if David Taylor could be my coach. I’m gonna be going to Oklahoma State, baby!’” It shows the influence Tayor had on Hendrickson to make the final decision.

Hendrickson entered into his new chapter after finishing in third place at the NCAA Championships in March. Hendrickson ended his senior season at Air Force Academy with a score of 27-2 and is now moving forward with determination. The excitement around this shift has left fans and fellow wrestlers wondering whether it will be a catalyst for Oklahoma State to reclaim its dominance in college wrestling.

Why Wyatt Hendrickson will be a perfect fit by David Taylor’s side for the Oklahoma State

Wyatt Hendrickson’s transfer from the Air Force Academy to Oklahoma State University is a major milestone in his wrestling career. He is known for his outstanding record of 103-11 over his four-year journey at the Air Force Academy. 

Hendrickson’s time at the Air Force Academy as a wrestler has helped me bag two All-American honors, but he wanted to do something new. Oklahoma State’s wrestling program and new leadership under David Taylor are a perfect opportunity. Hendrickson, a falcon athlete, needed clearance from the U.S. Air Force academy to move forward. Academy coach Sam Barber has told FloWrestling that Hendrickson can start his new chapter and come back to join the World Class Athlete Program wrestling again whenever he wants to.

Apart from Taylor, Hendrickson’s experience and techniques can do wonders in the wrestling field. His dedication and leadership on and off the mat, honed through his years of service at the Air Force Academy, will be invaluable to the Cowboys as they look to reassert themselves in the NCAA wrestling scene.